ProAgri Zambia 009

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

July 2016 Nr 09

Free

Mechanisation:

AFGRI has the answer Mechanise with MF

Dehorning cattle:

Poll for profit

How to AI beef cattle

Zimmatic: Use water wisely

Letter from the Editor

he show must go on. In show business this expression is used to indicate that no disaster is ever big enough to disappoint the audience. It is a matter of honour for the crew to continue the performance, no matter what.

In agriculture the show must also always go on. Although in this case it is not only a matter of honour, but of necessity, because people must eat. Drought or flooding, hail, wind or snow, it does not matter. The people need their grain, greens and meat.

In a few short weeks it is election time again and times of change always bring uncertainty.

ProAgri only has one wish and that is that whoever is in power will continue to support agricultural growth and development, making sure that all decisions are in the interest of food security and in support of a strong commercial agricultural sector (from

small-scale farmers to huge farming enterprises).

We also agree with Sishuwa Sishuwa, a Zambian political analyst based at the University of Oxford, when he says: “The tenacity of ordinary Zambians in resisting provocation and avoiding political violence over the last 30 years has been remarkable. One can only hope that this record endures…”

Indeed!

Talking about the show going on, it is almost time for the 2016 Agricultural and Commercial Show in Lusaka taking place from 27th July to 1st August, at the Lusaka Show Grounds, Great East Road. ProAgri will most definitely be around with all the other role players in agriculture in Zambia. Look out for our representatives and our slogan: Farm smartly!

Cover

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Every irrigation need has its own solution. For reliable, durable, cost effective pivot irrigation, Zimmatic remains the prefect solution. See page 19.

ProAgri

Annemarie Bremner > annemarie@proagri.co.za

technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

Office no. 3 Fens Investment Building Lusaka Show Grounds

Val Farmer’s Day

+26 (0)96-216-9801 www.proagri.co.za

At the recent Val Farmer’s Day near Standerton in South Africa, all the major agricultural machine companies demonstrated their new technology.

ProAgri Zambia also had a team there to see what farmers in Zambia can expect. Read more about it in our August issue.

Copyright © 2013. All rights r­ eserved. No m ­ aterial, text or p ­ hoto­graphs may be r­ eproduced, copied or in any other way t­ ransmitted without the written consent of the publisher. O ­ pinions ­expressed are not ­necessarily those of the publisher or of the e ­ ditor.

We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their r­ espective o ­ wners. ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.

ProAgri Zambia Editor Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za General Manager Zambia Quintus Grobler > +26 (0)96-216-9801 quintus@vanetechnology.com Reporters Du Preez de Villiers > +27 82-598-7329 dupreez@proagri.co.za

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Benine Cronjé > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Stefan van Wyk > +27 82-381-7563 stefan@agritrader.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 79-531-0024 tiny@proagri.co.za Hussein Kalinda > +26 97-857-6569 kalinda@proagri.co.za

Content

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18

25

27

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Dehorn cattle for more profits

7

Artificial insemination of beef cattle

9

What to do when the chicks arrive

13

AFGRI offers new mechanisation solutions

17

Massey Ferguson: The farmer’s friend in Africa

18

Soil: The farmer’s most important asset (Part 6)

25

Prevent damage: Measure pressure at the borehole

27

Higher yields demand superior storage technology

Farm

Albert Shuma > +26 97-631-6470 albert@vanetechnology.co.za

! smartly

Design Esta van Niekerk Enquiries Lize du Plooy > +27 12-803-0667 lize@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Keet > +27 861-777-225 accounts@smartpublishing.co.za Distribution Du Preez de Villiers > +27 12-803-0667 dupreez@proagri.co.za.co.za Business manager George Grobler

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

1

Met erkenning aan die Tuli-joernaal 2016

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Dehorn cattle for more profits Dehorning age Dehorning at a young age minimises hazards to the calf, the cow-calf producer, and the feedlot owner. Hazards for calves and owners include: • sickness or death following dehorning of older calves • decreased liveweight gains in the weeks following dehorning of older calves • loss of productivity

Horns may be beautiful and give character, but for serious beef production, especially in feedlots, the horns must go to make handling easier.

The one form of disarmament that makes sense, is the removal of cattle horns. In this short two-part series we discuss the reasons for and ways of dehorning.

Horns and their growth Horns are the pairs of hard, bonelike, permanent growths projecting from the heads of cattle. They grow from a unique area of skin cells at the base of the horn. At about two months of age, horns become attached to the frontal bone of the skull. A sinus lies within the skull beneath the horn bud. As the horn grows and attaches to the skull, this frontal sinus joins into the adjacent portion of the horn.

Some cattle breeds are naturally (genetically) hornless because they do not grow horns at all. Dehorning of horned cattle is the process of removal of their horns or the process of preventing their growth. A polled animal is one that grew no horns or one that was dehorned. Dehorning removes the horn and horn-producing tissue after horns have formed from the bud.

Cattle are dehorned to: • reduce the risk of injury and bruising to herd mates • prevent financial losses from trimming carcasses damaged by horned feedlot cattle during transport to slaughter • require less space at the feed bunk and in transit • decrease risk of injury to farm workers, horses and dogs • gain a price advantage by offering hornless cattle at auctions • produce docile cattle that are easier to handle

• decrease aggressiveness at the feed bunk • facilitate easier use of handling facilities Dehorning cattle at a very early age decreases the risk of death, illness and setback caused by dehorning.

Managing horned cattle Owners may choose to manage their cattle with or without horns. For beef cattle, the selection will depend on the available handling facilities, the producer's abilities, the awareness of dehorning effects, and the market available for the calves.

Owners with guaranteed buyers willing to purchase green calves (horns and testicles in place) at the same price as processed calves (castrated and dehorned), might be advised to avoid these procedures. However, this buyer is very rare. Most purchasers of green calves are well aware of the risks associated with processing older calves and routinely bid less at auctions.

Preconditioned (castrated, dehorned, vaccinated, bunk-adjusted) calves may bring a premium price. Generally, horned cattle are discounted at auctions.

Naturally polled dairy animals are very rare. Therefore, dehorning is a common management practice on dairy farms. Most housing systems and milking parlours are designed for dehorned cattle.

Many producers choose to dehorn new-born calves because: • techniques are easier for the operator • dehorning is less stressful on newborn calves • of concerns for animal welfare Although there is no evidence that pain differs between young and older calves, there is less risk with dehorning of young (less than eight weeks) calves.

The cow/calf producer's decision to dehorn and the timing (age) will be influenced by his or her facilities, available labour, expertise with the techniques, awareness of the impact of the procedure on calf health and productivity, the market for the calves, and the breed and nature of horns on the calves. Some breeds have stronger horns, and others softer horns.

The feedlot purchaser is able to selectively purchase horned or dehorned (polled) cattle with price as well as some of the above factors influencing the decision. In general, dairy calves receive intensive care and producers have an opportunity to dehorn their calves at a young age. It is each owner's responsibility to ensure humane and safe completion of the dehorning procedure on the calves entrusted to his care.

Welfare significance Livestock owners and veterinarians recognise that some people consider dehorning offensive. Nonetheless, dehorned cattle create a safer workplace for herdmates, handlers and workers - a benefit that outweighs the short period of discomfort at dehorning time.

• Young calves recover quicker and have fewer complications than older calves.

• There is no evidence to show young calves experience less pain than older calves.

• Local anaesthesia prior to dehorning eliminates acute pain for a few hours after dehorning.

• Local anaesthesia, combined with a sedative and an analgesic (pain reliever), may provide the best pain relief.

• Use of pain relief is an additional cost for producers. Pain relief may

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

3

your thumb backwards towith each technique. Many producers ward the horn. You will feel choose to dehorn new-born calves bea small groove that runs in cause the techniques are easier for the the bone of the skull. The operator, less stressful on the calves nerve runs along and under and they demonstrate concern for the this groove. The injection animals' welfare. site is in the upper third (closer to the horn bud) beIn our next issue we will discuss tween the corner of the eye different methods of dehorning. and the base of the horn.

• Disinfect the site with an alcohol swab.

• Use a 20 or 18 gauge, 25 to 37 mm needle.

It is better to dehorn cattle at an early age.

• Use a 6 or 10 cc syringe.

• Use from 3 to 10 cc of 2 be limited by the availability of drugs per cent lidocaine with epifor farmers to use and the scarcity of nephrine for each horn. The volume veterinarians in farm animal practice. depends on size of calf.

• Use of polled bulls is a welfare• While holding the head steady and friendly alternative to dehorning. with the needle on the syringe, push • Control of bleeding is essential when the needle through the skin at the dehorning older calves. injection site. The needle should penetrate perpendicular to the skull Choices in anaesthesia and pain at the site. Once you are through Some cattle breeds are naturally relief include: the skin, pull back on the plunger to hornless or polled, but it is also • a short-acting, local anaesthetic (eg be sure the needle is not in a blood possible to breed for the trait. lidocaine sential) with an effect for vessel; then inject about 1,5 cc of about 60 to 180 minutes lidocaine. Push the needle in about 6 • a sedative (alpha-2 agonist, eg mm and inject another 1,5 cc. Push ProAgri acknowledges Neil xylazine) given on its own or in conit in about another 6 mm and inject Anderson, Lead Veterinarian, Disjunction with a local anaesthetic will the remaining lidocaine. Then withease Prevention, Ruminants/OMAprovide analgesia for a few hours draw the needle. If you hit the bone FRA in Canada as well as the SA • a combination of local anaesthetic, with the tip of the needle, withdraw Tuli Journal 2016 for the informaa sedative (alpha-2 agonist, eg it slightly and inject the last of the tion used in this article. xylazine) and non-steroidal antilidocaine. inflammatory drug (NSAID) provides • Repeat on the pain control of longer duration other side of the • inclusion of a sedative with the local head. The lidoanaesthetic could eliminate the need caine is similar for physical restraint during dehornto the product ing. used by dentists • Treatment with an analgesic by itself to anaesthetise 146 Freedom Way, Lusaka, Zambia prior to disbudding (dehorning) with your tooth. caustic paste is not effective in con• You may need trolling pain. to wait several minutes for it Blocking the nerve to the horn to take effect.

One nerve provides feeling to each The upper eyelid horn. Blocking the nerve makes deusually droops horning easier on the calf and on the if the correct person doing the job. You must block injection techone nerve on each side of the head. niques are emLidocaine anaesthetic is a prescription ployed. Failure drug and is only available from your may occur if the veterinarian. This procedure requires injection went clinical training and practical experitoo deep at the ence. Local anaesthetic should be given site. by a veterinarian, a trained veterinary • Proceed to block technician, or a trained operator. the nerves on other calves and Technique then return to • Restrain the calf with a halter tied to dehorn the first a ring, a post, or a neck clamp. calf.

• Preferably, sedate the calf with an The farmer has injection of an appropriate dose of a various choices of sedative and a non-steroidal antihow to dehorn his inflammatory drug as per label direccattle.The choices tions. of dehorning • Locate the injection site for the local techniques range anaesthetic by putting your thumb from genetic to on the skin just beside the outside surgical. The risks corner of the eye. You will feel a soft to the calf and depression at this site. Now, move the operator vary

Tradevet LTD

For enquries Call: Raju Patel on 096 851 0155 We are selling AGRO CHEMICLE AND VETERINARY PRODUCTS

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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Our contact details: www.breedingimpulszambia.com breedingimpulszambia@gmail.com www.breedingimpulszambia.com Willem van Zyl +260 (0)96 562 0775 willem@agriserveagro.com Copperbelt, Central-, Southern- & Western Province: Alberto +260 (0)97 172 0550 Breeding Impuls Zambia specializes in reproductive services and products for dairy and beef cattle. We specialize in AI, synchronization, pregnancy diagnosis by sonograph, semen and AI equipment sales.

Based on our international experiences we created a “breeding manual” to help farmers to choose the right breed to achieve their goals. Semen is imported from different countries over the world, to provide the best genetics for a reasonable price.

Our Services: • Artificial Insemination • Pregnancy diagnosis (palpitation, sonograph) • Synchronization Our Products: • Liquid Nitrogen • Bull semen:

- Dairy semen: Fleckvieh, Holstein-Friesian, Jersey

- Beef semen: Fleckvieh, Simental, Aberdeen Angus (red, black), Brahman, Boran, Brangus, Bonsmara, Tuli • Synchronization hormones (Syntex) • AI equipment: “Liquid Nitrogen For Sale Liquid Nitrogen flasks, AI kits, AI guns universal, minicutters, tweezers, sheaths, thaw units, thaw monitors, gloves, lubricants, disinfectants

Artificial insemination of beef cattle

by Roy Dixon - CRV Xseed

Many producers of purebred and commercial beef cattle can profitably utilise artificial insemination (AI).The benefit of AI is to use the best genetics at affordable prices. This is very beneficial for young stud breeders.

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ost AI programmes fail because of lack of commitment from the owner. He or she must totally desire to make AI work.

Neglect of any aspect of management will reduce AI conception rates, most likely to the extent it will cancel many of the benefits that the technique offers.

It is important to take the following into consideration before starting an AI programme.

• Are the kraals and facilities suitable for the practice?

• Do you have camps where heat detection can be done properly?

• Are your workers trained to do heat detection?

• Are your cows cycling properly?

Both a sound health programme and good nutrition are requirements for any breeding programme, but it will become absolute essential ingredients for artificial insemination. In addition, more labour and skills are needed, especially in the initial phases of the programme.

Heat detection and beef AI programmes The most limiting factor in artificial insemination programmes is proper heat detection in cows and heifers.

In beef cattle farming where artificial insemination is the means of breeding the females, the workers must recognise and interpret a cow’s heat signals. Proper timing of the artificial insemination is necessary to accomplish a high percentage of conceptions in the cows that are bred artificially.

A cow is fertile only when an egg has been released (or ovulated) from the ovary. This occurs about 10 – 14 hours after the period called “standing heat” ends. This means that for the highest fertility, cows or heifers should be inseminated approximately 12 – 18 hours after the cow first comes in “standing heat”.

As cows are more active during the cooler periods of the day, it is very important that the workers

must be able to detect heat signs and secondary heat signs.

Secondary heat signs are: • willingness to mount other cows • roughened tail head or mud on the rump • restlessness • clear stringy mucus discharge The best times of the day to observe cattle for heat detection are early in the morning and at the last daylight in the evening.

Several aids to heat detection are available for producers with artificial insemination programmes.

• Kamar heatmount detector • Estrutect heat detectors Table 1. When cows show heat Time

Percentage of cows showing heat signs

06:00 to 12:00

22%

12:00 to 18:00

10%

18:00 to 24:00

25%

24:00 to 06:00

43%

Table 1 from Cornell University These devices are glued to the rump (just forward of the tailhead) of cows suspected to be in heat in the near future.

Regular practice at inseminating is required to maintain high conception rates.

When to A1 for best results Cows first showing oestrus

Should be bred

Too late for good results

In the morning

That evening

Next day

In the evening

That next morning

After 15:00 the next day

Practical tips for beef AI It is easier to AI heifers, but they usually do not produce the best calves - heifers are still growing and do not have as much milk for their calves as older cows.

• Select the cows that calve down early and put them in your AI programme.

• Get the cows used to the facilities.

• Feed mineral supplements to enhance fertility before commencing the AI programme.

• If necessary, the inseminator must attend a refresher AI course before commencing the AI programme.

• Use heat detection aids.

It is far better to AI cows that are on their natural heat cycle than cows that have been synchronised.

Most breeders that have been disappointed with the results of AI did not plan the programme properly or their expectations of synchronisation were too high.

Oestrus synchronisation After a visit to Brazil and Argentina, I realised that far too little effort is put into oestrus synchronisation programmes in Southern Africa. CRV Lagoa in Brazil, a subsidiary of CRV Xseed, offers at least 6 different programmes for cows and heifers. Each programme is tailor-made for specific cattle under specific conditions.

Local farmers are hesitant to AI small groups of cows, where in Brazil, the biggest client of CRV Lagoa inseminates 100 000 cows in one season. This is all done by oestrus synchronisation.

Many big commercial farms in Brazil are using AI. CRV Xseed will be working closely with CRV Lagoa in Brazil to implement these programmes in Southern Africa.

Bad results with oestrus synchronisation are always blamed on the semen quality and not on the choice of synchronisation programmes and preparation of cows. We must remember it takes only one sperm to impregnate a cow. The minimum number of sperms cells put in straws at certified AI stations is 10 million sperm cells of which 75% must be normal and 40% alive after thawing of the straw.

CRV Xseed is currently expanding their range of beef bulls to supply their clients with the best genetics available at the best price.

This will include beef genetics from other countries, such as their large range of Angus genetics from the USA.

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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Feed them all with Tiger Animal Feeds

Call 0966 763 650

Farm management prior and on the day of chick delivery Good management practices may mean the difference between success and failure as a poultry farmer. Proper preparation is part of management. The better you are prepared prior to the delivery of every new batch of chicks, the better your chances of converting your inputs to profits.

- Check all equipment to see if it is working properly and adjusted to the correct height.

- Remove old feed from the bins and hoppers.

- Clean and disinfect feed and water hoppers and allow proper drying before new feed is delivered.

- Position rat poison where it cannot be reached by the chicks.

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aluable advice is offered to chicken farmers by Tiger Animal Feeds. This company has been supporting farmers in Zambia for the past twenty years with superb products and know-how to reap resounding success from their efforts.

Proper preparations can make a meaningful difference for chicken farmers.

What to do prior to chick delivery: - Clean and disinfect all the cages, equipment and poultry houses.

One the day before delivery: - Set the heating system to between 31 and 33ยบC for cage brooding and between 32 and 35ยบC for floor brooding.

- Check the water system and adjust drinkers to the height of the chicks.

- Ensure that all drinkers are disinfected and flushed before arrival of chicks.

On the day of delivery: - Have the water lines full and in operation.

- Trigger the water cups or nipples to

encourage drinking. If nipple drinkers are used, the water pressure should be reduced so that the birds can see the drop of water hanging from the drinker.

- Operate the feeders at highest feed level. In the event of cage brooding, feed should be placed on paper.

- Keep lights at highest intensity, 23 hours per day for the first two days, to encourage feeding.

Always buy feed from a reputable firm, such as Tiger Feeds. For more information please contact Rowena Blanco, Nutritionist, Tiger Animal Feeds at +260-96-7991-847 or rowena@tigerfeeds.com.zm. Also visit www.Tigerfeeds.com for more information.

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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ProAgri Zambia 07

May 2016

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Small and emerging farmers in Zambia:

AFGRI offers new mechanisation solutions

Good news for all small-scale and emerging farmers is that they too can depend on John Deere’s efficient farming solutions.

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an asset finance package, is offered

by John Deere Financial in partnership with ZANACO and the ZNFU. This is also part of the John Deere S.M.A.R.T campaign to bring together the company’s established initiatives and programmes designed to enhance and advance productivity in African agriculture.

With the supply of a complete line of affordable tractors and implements into the African market, John Deere has delivered on one of the first elements of the S.M.A.R.T. campaign.

Mechanising for higher yields, the second element of the S.M.A.R.T. campaign, offers the small farmer solutions to increase his income. Yield

increases of three or more times are possible as farmers adopt mechanisation and integrate new farming practices. Gaining higher yields from the same size of land is what makes mechanisation a key element of a sustainable approach to food security and improved income for small farmers and contractors.

Another element of the S.M.A.R.T. campaign is the access to financing for African farmers. John Deere Financial launched an agriculture asset finance scheme at a colourful ceremony held last year in the Kabwe district. Officially launching the scheme, the Provincial Agriculture Coordinator (PACO), in a speech read on her behalf by the Principle Agriculture Officer for the Central Province, Elizabeth Chuma, lauded the innovative agricultural asset finance package which has brought renewed hope of mechanising the agricultural sector.

Reliability for lower costs and technology education completes the S.M.A.R.T. campaign elements. John Deere products are designed to be reliable, and they are backed by AFGRI, the authorised dealer in Zambia, for spare parts and support. Technology education is a key element, with John Deere already having trained thousands of farmers and contractors in Africa on how to utilise mechanisation to improve yields and increase profits. Additional training sessions in Zambia are planned for 2016/2017.

eople are often gasping with astonishment when they admire John Deere’s giant tractors, but John Deere caters for smaller farmers and smaller tasks on big farms with the same dedication and care that goes into their biggest tractors.

AFGRI Zambia is pleased to announce the introduction of the new John Deere 5042C (31 kW / 42 hp) tractor into the Zambian market. This exciting new tractor, as well as the John Deere 6100B (75 kW / 100 hp), was launched in April at the Agritech Expo 2016 on the GART Exciting features of the two NEW tractors introduced at the Agritech Expo 2016 on the GART Research Centre grounds in ChisamResearch centre in Chisamba: ba.

“We were amazed with the 6100B and 6110B Tractors 5042C Tractor enthusiastic interest that we received from SME’s (small and mediumsized enterprises) and the emerging farming sector,” says Willie Dietrechsen, AFGRI Equipment’s Manager in Zambia.

We are very excited that we can now offer the first tractor with a complete “FREE SERVICE PACKAGE” from AFGRI Equipment. This free service package includes all services on the John Deere 5042C tractor for Engine: John Deere Power Turbo, 4,5 liter, 4 cylinder the duration of the warranty period Engine: John Deere PowerTech, 2,9 liter, 3 cylinder or 6,8 liter, 6 cylinder of 2 years or 2 000 hours, whichever Power: 42 hp (31 kW) occurs first, with no extra cost to the Power: 100 hp (75 kW) and 110 hp (82 kW) respectively farmer.

Transmission: 8F/2R, dry clutch, TWD Transmission: 9F/3R TSS MFWD A new “Complete Mechanisation Power take off (pto): Independant 540 @ 1 575 rpm PTO: 540/1 000 @ 2 100 rpm Package” will also be available to Hydraulic lift capacity: 1 100 kg Hydraulic lift capacity: 2 400 kg and 3 469 kg SME’s and emerging farmers to obRoll-over protection system (ROPS) with canopy 2 x selective control valves tain a full range of implements from 3-point hitch: Category II 3-point hitch: Category II AFGRI that will be included in one package deal. This, together with

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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ProAgri Zambia 07

May 2016

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Massey Ferguson:

The farmer’s friend in Africa

As part of the Global Series, this MF 5709 can be used for applications ranging from primary cultivation to haulage operations and a myriad tasks in between.

In Zambia farmers can truly benefit from Massey Ferguson’s ideal to offer a package of integrated solutions to farmers. The latest solution to report for duty is the MF 300 Series.

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his new range of 37 – 63 kW (50 – 85 hp) tractors for selected African and Middle East markets will further strengthen Massey Ferguson’s product offering in the lower horsepower tractor sector and offer a broader choice to farmers looking for a rugged and reliable multi-purpose machine.

“Simple, yet powerful, the MF 300 Series tractors are tried and tested, with a strong reputation for straightforward operation and robust dependability - they are ideally-equipped to meet the tough challenges of African agriculture,” says Thierry Lhotte, Massey Ferguson Vice-President Marketing, Europe/Africa/Middle East. “More than 1,5 million units based on this renowned design are already at work in the world.”

Affordable and economical to run, these entry-level ‘do anything’ tractors will have strong appeal as the main power source for smallholder farmers or local community groups looking to mechanise or upgrade their agricultural

operations. The models can also be a valuable addition to a machinery fleet on larger farms or estates requiring a cost-effective workhorse with easy servicing and maintenance.

Consisting of six models in total, three MF 300 Series models have been released – the 37 kW (50 hp) MF 345 two-wheel-drive (2WD), the 56 kW (75hp) MF 375 (2WD), and the 63 kW (85hp) MF 385 (2WD and 4WD).

The longer wheelbase MF 350 (2WD), MF 355 (2WD) and MF 360 (2WD) will follow later in the year.

“As true multi-taskers, all the models in the MF 300 series are equally adept at cultivation, planting, transport or yard duties, working across a wide range of farm sectors including tillage, livestock and horticulture,” explains Thierry Lhotte.

Six Massey Ferguson matched implements, covering cultivation, planting and transport, have also been launched recently. Read more about these implements in ProAgri Zambia 07

The new MF 300 series with its matching implements will take small-scale farming in Zambia to the next level of mechanisation.

or on www.proagri.co.za/zambia.

The MF 300 series follows in the footsteps of the recently introduced MF 5700 models, completing the Global Series of tractors from 62 to 98 kW, including the also-new MF 4700 and MF 6700 series.

The MF 5700 series provides the dependable power needed for primary cultivation in field husbandry, while also offering the versatile transmission and operator comfort for haulage operations such as transporting sugar cane.

On larger farms and sugar estates, the MF 5700 will form an important part of the fleet as a prime mover and haulage tractor.

Mike Brown, Market Manager, Massey Ferguson for Africa & Middle East, comments: “Following the path set out by the MF 4700 Series for a reliable workhorse which can perform a range of tasks for farming enterprises, the MF 5700 series combines greater performance with low cost of ownership and enhanced reliability. It features Massey Ferguson’s latest engineering technology while remaining totally straightforward to operate and maintain.”

The Massey Ferguson 5700 series incorporates many key features: • 4 cylinder, 4,4 ℓ turbocharged AGCO Power engine, MF 5709 (69 kW/92hp), MF 5710 (76 kW/102hp) 12F x 12R synchromesh gearbox with either synchronised shuttle or power shuttle.

• Heavy duty transaxle assembly with oil-immersed disc brakes and electrohydraulic operated differential lock.

• Independent PTO (IPTO) with electrohydraulic engagement. IPTO 540 rpm standard with 540E & 1000 rpm options.

• Electro-hydraulically engaged 4WD front axle with centre drive shaft and hydraulically locked differential.

• Open centre hydraulic system with up to 98 ℓ/min available for auxiliary valves.

• Rear linkage with external lift cylinders providing 4 300 kg maximum lift capacity.

• Electronic Linkage Control system (ELC) with two-lever operation. Up to three auxiliary valves.

• Ergonomic operator station with side mounted gear levers and clear floor area. ISO mounted flat floor platform.

• Radial tyres standard fitment.

Contact Hennie Heyneke on 021122-4919, 096-109-5887, HHeyneke@bhbw.co.zm; Werner Kritzinger on 096-9970276, wkritzinger@bhbw.co.zm or BHutchinson@bhbw.co.zm, 096-802-2320

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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SOIL: The farmer’s most important asset PART 6: Cation exchange capacity and

the diffuse double layer

Martiens du Plessis, Soil Scientist, NWK Limited & Prof Cornie van Huyssteen, Lecturer: Soil Science, University of the Free State

Soil is the most fundamental resource for the farmer, without which food and natural fibre cannot be produced.

This article forms part of a series to highlight this resource.

From a soil perspective, plant growth is determined by the availability of water and nutrients. The provision of water is dependent on the physical properties of the soil, while the chemistry of the soil determines the availability of plant nutrients. The soil’s chemistry is discussed in this and the following three articles.

Types of negative charges The various clays and the charges that occur in them have already been discussed earlier. These clays or soil colloids have two types of negative charge. The first is the permanent charge that originates from isomorphic substitution. The second is the pH dependent charge, which forms when H+ and OH- groups in especially 1:1 clay, organic colloids, Fe and Mn hydroxides and certain amorphic compounds dissociate or protonise. The contribution of the constant and pH dependent charge of selected colloids is given in Table 1. The pH measures the concentration of H+ ions in the soil solution, on a scale from 1 to 14, with pH 7 as neutral. The lower the pH (<7), the

higher the concentration of H+ ions in the soil solution.

The pH dependent negative charge therefore increases as the pH increases and lessens as the pH decreases. The CEC of soils with a high fraction pH dependent charge will thus increase as the soil pH increases.

Positive charge A limited positive charge of between 0 and 15 cmolc kg-1 could occur in highly weathered soils. This charge forms when cations with a low charge are replaced by cations with a higher charge. A positive

Figure 1: Ion adsorption on a silicate clay (left), where the negative charge on the colloid attracts cations (with a positive charge); while the positive charge on iron oxide (right) attracts anions (with a negative charge). Note that in all cases, one negative charge must be balanced by one positive charge.

Negative charges Type of soil colloid Total CEC Permanent

Variable cmolc kg-1 clay (%) (%) Organic matter 240 25 75 Montmorillonite (2:1) 100 95 5 Vermiculite 85 100 0 Illite 30 60 40 Kaolinite (1:1) 10 5 95 Gibbsite 10 0 100 Table 1 The contribution of permanent and pH dependent charges to the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of selected soil colloids at pH 7

charge can also form by protonisation at low pH: AlOH + H+ AlOH2+ Ion adsorption The negative and positive charges on the colloids must be balanced out with an opposite charge. A negative charge attracts positively charged cations such as Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and H+, while a positive charge attracts negatively charged anions such as HPO42-, NO3and SO42- (Figure 1).

Diffuse double layer Ions are not bound in a single layer around the clay, but are spread in

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cation and anion concentration is equal. Cations and anions occur mixed in the diffuse double layer.

Figure 2: Schematic presentation of the diffuse double layer: the mixture of cations and anions on the left and the concentration of cations and anions, as well as the thickness of the diffuse double Ca layer on the right. tio ns The thickness of the diffuse double layer is determined by the cation composition and concentration. Should the soil solution mainly comprise monovalent cations with a large ion radius (e.g. Na+), the diffuse double layer will be Anions thicker than when the soil solution comprises cations with a higher charge and smaller Distance ion radius (e.g. Ca2+). The thickness of the diffuse double layer is therefore also deterFigure 2: Schematic presentation of mined by the ion concentrathe diffuse double layer: the mixture of tion. If the ion concentration cations and anions on the left and the be high, the double layer will concentration of cations and anions, be thin and if the ion conas well as the thickness of the diffuse centration be low, the double double layer on the right. layer will be thick.

The thickness of the diffuse double layer and the factors that influence it play a major role in two layers around the clay. These two the swelling and shrinkage properties layers are jointly known as the diffuse of the soil, which takes place when double layer (Figure 2). Ions closest the cations that are adsorbed in the to the colloid are attracted strongcolloids, adsorb water molecules, or est and form the innermost or Stern when they dry out. Sodium adsorbs layer. The rest of the ions are more six times more water than calcium. weakly bound and form the outer or The diffuse double layer will therediffuse layer, also known as the Gouy fore be thick when sodium occurs layer. Cation concentration is therefore predominantly in the soil. Similarly, the highest against the colloid and a low salt concentration will lead to a decreases further from the colloid. In thick diffuse double layer. These two contrast, the anion concentration is factors are of cardinal importance in lowest close to the colloid and increassaline and sodic soils, to be discussed es with distance. The boundary of in a future issue. When clay swells, the diffuse double layer is where the

Compact layer

Soil solution

Ion concentration

Diffuse layer

the small particles are pushed away from each other. The natural structure of the soil is therefore broken apart, and the soil pore space decreases. The aeration and water movement in the soil is therefore reduced.

In conclusion, clay has a negative charge. This charge must be balanced by positively charged cations. These cations do not occur as a single layer, but are spread over two diffuse layers.

The composition and concentration of cations in these layers determine the thickness of the diffuse double layer which, in turn, determines the structure stability and water movement in the soil. Cation exchange will be discussed in the next issue.

REFERENCES The following sources have been used extensively during the compilation of this article: Van Huyssteen, CW. 2009. Soil Ecology. Unpublished class notes for GKD214. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.

Du T Burger, R. 1979. Soil Science 115.

Unpublished class notes for GKD115.

University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.

Brady, NC. 1990. The nature and properties of soils. 10th ed. Macmillan publishing company, New York.

Marshall, TJ & Holmes, JW 1979. Soil Physics. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

ProAgri Zambia acknowledges Grain SA for the use of this series which originally appeared in Afrikaans in SA Graan/Grain.

For further information, please contact: Martiens du Plessis: martiens@nwk.co.za Cornie van Huyssteen: vanhuysteencw@ufs.ac.za

ProAgri Zambia 09

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45Hp 2wd tractor $17 500 Demo tractor with less than 10 hours

MF440 82Hp 2wd tractor

$30 500

Demo tractor with less than 15 hours

McCormick 215 ( 194 HP) $40 000 (Negotiable) 6 500 hrs Full service record 24 July 2016

Ian Robinson 0967-609371 Werner Kritzinger | +260-211-224919| +260-969-970276|

wkritzinger@bhbw.co.zm ProAgri Zambia 09

Prevent damage to your water pump: Measure water pressure at the borehole W

ith the current water shortage, a common and serious problem is damage to borehole pumps due to dry running when the water level drops.

Even trusted boreholes that have been around for generations are suddenly experiencing problems with water levels in the current drought situation.

Pumps get damaged because they are running dry.

Damage can be prevented with proper care, though. Agriplas has the right equipment to minimise your risk throughout this period of drought.

With the GSM Pro the water pressure at the borehole can be measured and parameters can be set for switching off the pump. The pump stops when a

critical minimum pressure is reached and the farmer gets notified via a text message on his cell phone.

The pump will only restart once the top measurement of pressure has been

reached, and again the farmer will be notified.

The real pressure values can also be monitored on the Internet and historical data can be used to determine the rising and dropping of water levels in a specific borehole, using the pump pressure as benchmark.

The functionality of the GSM Pro can also be expanded to control the pump remotely or to determine whether the power at the pump is on or off.

For more information, please contact Agriplas at +27-21-9177177 or visit www.agriplas.co.za

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

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Maheer Auto Limited

Hydrautivity Zambia Limited Hydrautivity Zambia Limited is a company specialised in mobile line boring that serves the whole country. We operate with a unique electric driven line boring setup designed and built to improve efficiency.

The line boring machine can line bore from 38mm to 152mm in diameter. We also refurbish buckets, tapping out broken bolts, removal and fitting of pins and bushes.

To us customers are very important and every job will be finished to the tightest tolerances with perfect alignment while keeping down time and costs to a minimum. For quotes/enquiries and bookings please feel free to contact us today.

Crank shaft grinding, building, straightening, Cylinder head skimming, pressure testing, cam bush fitting, boring, drilling holes, grinding valves lapping, refrace valve seats, block resleaving, reboring, line boring conrod, standardizing...

Address : Plot # 1676, Chifinga Rd. Opposite Bosch Diesel, Lusaka.

Contact: Mr Faizan 097-114-7233 or 096-689-6234

26 July 2016

Plot 8086 off Mumbwa Road, Chinika industrial area, Lusaka.

Mobile: +260 (0) 955 774714 or +260 (0) 966 450313 david_chirwa@yahoo.co.uk

ProAgri Zambia 09

Higher yields demand superior storage technology Why choose 40-Series™ grain storage?

Higher capacities Whether it is for food, feed, or fuel, we need to move grain more efficiently than ever. GSI’s new Z-Tek™ Roof System, with its large flat top and higher peak loads, supports larger material handling equipment, allowing more grain to move into storage faster than ever before.

The design of GSI’s new stiffener profile increases strength, allowing you to go taller with your grain storage system and have more flexibility in design.

A complete family of accessories Taking care of your grain requires an entire system, and GSI offers a complete family of grain bin accessories that make working in and around your storage system an easy and safe experience.

Call today for more information on grain storage, conditioning and material handling equipment. The GSI Group South Africa, (+27)11-794-4455, www.gsiafrica.co.za, sales@gsiafrica.co.za.

Superior protection With rising commodity prices, it is critical to protect this high-value inventory and optimise its condition.

Flashing-free roof overlaps, increased snow load capacities, and polyethylene sealing washers all provide superior protection of your grain from the elements.

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

27

G.A. Reddy Construction Graders 140H

Graders 120H

JCB tlb 4x4 Excavator

Address:

Contact:

28 July 2016

We do all kinds of jobs regarding earth movers, like mining, fish ponds, road construction, dams, bush clearance and any related work. We have very good equipment with skilled operators.

House no 69, Great East Road, Lusaka Opposite Petroda house 097-118-6787/ 096-202-9259 / 095-013-0918

Roller compactor

ProAgri Zambia 09

OMKAR CONSTRUCTION LTD “We hire earthmoving machines and we do land clearance, bush clearance, fish ponds and all kind of construction works”

Plot No. 3064, Great East Road, Lusaka, Zambia, Opp. Engen Filling Station Cell +260-964444001

omkarconstruct@gmail.com ProAgri Zambia 09

or +260-976139794

July 2016

29

MOTORLAND LIMITED Vehicle sales and rentals

MERCEDES BENZ 1823 Atego, 2004 model, flat bed, spring suspension, immaculate condition

MITSUBISHI CANTER DIESEL,2002 model 3 ton short chassis cargo van, 42 000 km+, immaculate condition.

TOYOTA LANDCRUISER hardtop, 2010 model,1hz diesel engine, 62,000+km, immaculate condition

Plot 90 A Wamulwa Road, Thornpark P/bAG E891 Postnet 185 Manda Hill Lusaka - Zambia

VOLVO AND SCANIA TRACTOR UNITS ,6×4,2005 & 2007 MODELS ALL IN MINT CONDITION .

VOLVO FL10 TIPPER TRUCK, 1999 model l in immaculate condition

Tel: +260 211 223256 Direct/Fax: +260 211 223279 Cell: +260 955 762022 +260 977 781863 E-mail: motorland@fastmail.fm

MITSUBISHI SUPER GREAT 2002 model, 20 ton closed refrigerator body truck in immaculate condition

HINO 3.5 TON TRUCK, 2007 model with drop- ASSORTED SUVS AND 4×4 ‘S & 4×2’S sides and lift at the back, mint condition. double and single cabs in stock.

For quality, new and second hand vehicles

30 July 2016

All in immaculate condition.

ProAgri Zambia 09

STAALBOER for Convenient Bulk Storage A quick and lasting solution to water, liquid fertilizer, chemicals and bulk grain storage.

QUALITY PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

Staalboer is a Proudly South African company manufacturing steel panel reservoirs with capacities ranging from 15 000l to 4 000 000l and heights ranging from 1,3m to 4,9m. The structures are fully galvanized and have a life expectancy in excess of 20 years. Our dams are made from flat steel panels with stiffening rings at the top and bottom and in between as necessary. They have a more pleasing appearance and much better wind resistance than corrugated dams.

These cost-effective reservoirs are easy to transport by a long wheelbase bakkie, and can be shipped anywhere in the world. The dams can be erected in minimal time by unskilled labour using only basic hand tools and they don’t require a concrete floor. However, Staalboer can do the erection for you.

STEEL PANEL DAMS - 15KL to 1900KL Capacity - Heights of 1.3m, 1.9M, 2.5m, 3.1m, 3.7m and 4.9m - Easy transport and erection - Steel dome roofs - 30 years life expectancy

TANKS STANDS -

1.5m to 12m high for 5kl and 10kl tanks Engineers certificate on structures Bolted construction for easy transport and erection

The liquid is contained by a polyester net-reinforced PVC liner with seams made by a high frequency welding process to provide watertight joints.

The liner is suitable for potable water and a wide range of chemicals and liquid fertilizer. It carries a 10 year pro-rata warranty against sun damage.

They can be fitted with a 40% or 95% shade net galvanized roof structure. Some sizes can be fitted with a galvanized steel dome roof. The dams can be fitted with any size or number of inlets and outlets. An engineer certificate is available on all our structures at additional cost.

In addition, we manufacture a range of water tank stands for 2 500l, 5 000l and 10 000l tanks in heights of 1,5m, 3,0m, 4,5m, 6,0m, 7,5m, 9,0m and 12,0m.

These stands are either primed or fully galvanized. They have a bolted construction for easy transport and erection. Hinges on two columns eliminates the need for scaffolding or lifting equipment. We provide a galvanized platform on both our primed and galvanized stands. The structure comes with a structural engineering certificate.

All material used complies with ISO standards. Our expert teams are available to do erections country wide and cross border. We are registered as exporters.

Visit our website at www.staalboer.co.za or phone Liz at +27 82-210-0999

Quality at prices – w the best e beat an y written q uotation!

DIY dams also available / 10 year guarantee Galvanised iron tanks suitable for human use Supplied with a certificate 4 x 2,3 potable water tank (29 kℓ) 6 x 2,3 m potable water tank (65 kℓ) 8 x 2,3 m potable water tank (116 kℓ)

– R16 600 – R27 200 – R40 100

Prices include: Roof, galvanised iron, lining, 50 mm outlet, 40 mm overflow, erection and VAT. Transport excluded.

Galvanised iron and grain dams

4 x 2,3 m galvanised iron dam (29 kℓ) 6 x 1,55 m galvanised iron dam (44 kℓ) 6 x 2,3 m galvanised iron dam (65 kℓ) 8 x 2,3 m galvanised iron dam (116 kℓ) 12 x 2,3 m galvanised iron dam (261 kℓ) 14 x 2,3 m galvanised iron dam (354 kℓ)

– R11 900 – R14 100 – R17 800 – R24 400 – R52 900 – R69 000

Don't hide!

Advertise your product, company or service in ProAgri Zambia We distribute 10 000 copies to farmers and the agricultural community every month.

Contact our Zambian office: Quintus Grobler: +26 (0)96-216-9801 quintus@vanetechnology.com Or our representatives in SA:

Prices include: Galvanised iron, lining, 50 mm outlet, 40 mm overflow, erection and VAT. Transport excluded.

Any size galvanised iron dam, grain dam, galvanised iron tank or lining can be manufactured on request. 0,8 to 1,2 mm Zinc-Al sheets with a life expectancy of 2 to 4 times longer than that of traditional sheets are used. 850 GSM pvc linings are manufactured with the aid of a high-frequency welding process.

Linings are UV resistant. Material of the same thickness is used for the walls and the floor. Should the thickness differ, you get your lining free.

Jannie: +27 72-600-0179 | Boet: +27 82-496-1934 | Office: +27 76-307-7573 E-mail: nwdamme@gmail.com | Website: http://nwdamme.jimdo.com

Xander Pieterse: +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Stefan van Wyk: +27 82-381-7563 stefan@agritrader.co.za Tiny Smith : +27 79-768-1599 tiny@proagri.co.za

ProAgri Zambia 09

July 2016

31

Egg Tray Master The Manufacturer of paper egg trays

Eggtraymaster@gmail.com

Plot # 9067, Katanga Road, off Mumbwa Road, Lusaka or contact us at 097-453-8887 or 097-549-3156

Yieldingtree Pullet Rearers Limited Zambia’s Finest

POINT-OF-LAY PULLETS Available from our agents countrywide Mazabuka- H.S Supplies

0213-230-184

Monze- Kandondo Stores

0213-250-105

Choma- Arupee

0213-220-004

Livingstone-Gawula Agric

0213-321-441

Kitwe/Chingola-Pineland Ranch

0955-925-486

Ndola/Luanshya – Fisenge Group 0955-434-684 Chipata- Mr Sakala

0977-251-915

For Lusaka see address below Tel: 0211-220-020 or 55 Cell: 0967-289-765 Head office: 176 Luanshya Road, Lusaka 32 July 2016

ProAgri Zambia 09