The National Farmers’ Union of Scotland (NFU Scotland) has said its autumn conference will focus on securing a profitable and sustainable future for Scottish agriculture.

The NFU Scotland conference will take place on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Carnegie Conference Centre, Halbeath Road, Dunfermline.

With the recent launch of the Scottish government’s Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill, NFU Scotland said it will focus on the need to secure a profitable and sustainable future for Scottish agriculture and the role of policy and regulation in delivering it

The event will see a mix of speakers in person and online who will discuss and debate what future agriculture policy will look like from a Scottish, UK and European perspective.

The event will start at 9:30a.m, with registration from 8:45a.m. It will finish up at 3:00p.m.

NFU Scotland President Martin Kennedy said: “We’re delighted to have such a great mix of speakers already confirmed for our annual autumn conference which is always an excellent platform for lively discussion and debate. 

“Securing the appropriate policy and regulation is key to the success of a sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture that delivers for Scotland’s farmers and crofters and plays an integral part in delivering the nation’s ambitions on climate change, biodiversity and rural communities. 

“It is also important we look and learn from our neighbours both within the UK, in Europe and further afield. 

“The line-up for our autumn conference provides an exciting opportunity for our members to hear and question how Scotland is progressing and what other countries are experiencing, thinking and applying.”

Speakers

The first session, The Scottish policy landscape, will be chaired by NFU Scotland president Martin Kennedy and will kick off at 10:00a.m on the day of the conference.

The session will feature Mairi Gougeon, the cabinet secretary for rural affairs, islands and land reform, who will discuss the role of the Scottish government in supporting a profitable agricultural sector.

Then, before taking a Q&A session, Kennedy will discuss the union’s policy priorities for a sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture.

Session two will begin at 11:30a.m, chaired by one of NFU Scotland’s vice presidents.

The session, A UK perspective, will feature NFU president Minette Batters who will speak what the future for farmers in England looks like.

1:45p.m will see shadow minister for environment, food and rural affairs, Daniel Zeichner, discuss the future of agriculture policy.

Session three will then kick off shortly after at 2:15p.m, chaired by a vice president of NFU Scotland.

The European perspective session will feature Jenny Brunton of the British Agricultural Bureau (BAB) to discuss the future of EU farm policy.

Following Brunton’s presentation, Ronja Björkqvist of the European Council of Young Farmers will discuss a farmer’s perspective on EU policy direction.

The post NFU Scotland autumn conference to focus on sustainable farming future appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

There are changes afoot in the implement sector as manufacturers adapt to the ever changing landscape of tractor dealer consolidation.

Maschio Gaspardo, the Italian cultivation specialist, and Gregoire Besson, the French manufacturer best known for its ploughs, are the latest to announce moves to ensure they remain as key suppliers of agricultural machinery.

Consolidation of resources

In a joint statement, the companies declared their intention to cooperate in the areas of innovation, technology, research and development as well as “facilitate the ability to optimise materials and components purchasing processes”, which, they believe will benefit competitiveness for both brands.

The statement issued by the companies mainly comprises the management teams enthusing over synergies, values and so on.

More precise detail is scarce, but it is likely that the two brands will remain distinct as both names are well respected on the continent.

One of the details not mentioned is why they felt it necessary to suddenly form this alliance. Both are large companies with a strong presence in the market, and they actually compete with each other to a large extent.

Tractor makers push change

The answer probably has more to do with the consolidation of dealerships by the large tractor manufacturers which are seeking to present a more uniform shop front to customers, rather than have their machines parked among a jumble of implement brands.

John Deere is widely regarded as leading the way in reducing the size of dealership networks, and New Holland has recently let it be known that it will be taking steps to ensure that its implements are more frequently stocked by its dealers.

Putting these two factors together, the implement manufacturers are waking up to the reality that their colleagues on the tractor side are wanting to disrupt the traditional model of a dealership of one tractor brand and a yard full of implements of his own choosing.

Sky Agriculture shows the way

The Burel Group of France has already taken the step of amalgamating its brands under the Sky banner in response to this development and all of its products will eventually carry the same livery and be available through one point of contact within the company.

Quite how far down this road the Maschio Gaspardo and Gregoire Besson will go is something that they may not have discussed yet.

They are still family-owned companies and have no need to appease shareholders with regular updates of their strategies and performance.

Maschio Gaspardo has already entered into an agreement to supply a small range of cultivation equipment to New Holland and there is obviously the opportunity for this to expand, turning dealers’ yards into seas of blue and yellow over the next few years.

In Ireland there are a large number of independent manufacturers all toiling away doing their own thing, but they need to be aware that the sands are shifting and perhaps they should start clubbing together themselves.

The post Dealer consolidation leads to manufacturers’ cooperation appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The UK pig price is continuing to drop, according to the National Pig Association (NPA), but at a slower pace than the pork market decline taking place in major EU pork-producing countries.

The EU-spec standard pig price was down by a further 1.62p during the week ended October 14 to stand at 220.12p/kg.

This was the second biggest fall of the year – and the standard pig price (SPP) has now lost 5.5p since mid-August, but still currently stands 20p ahead of a year ago, the NPA said.

Following the previous week’s loss of 1.5p, the all pig price (APP), which includes premium pigs, lost another 0.61p to stand at 221.08p/kg during the week ended October 7.

This gap between the two price indexes increased once again, with the SPP now 0.65p ahead of the APP.

Declining UK prices

“One of the biggest drivers in the decline of UK prices is falling EU prices,” the NPA said.

“The EU reference price dropped back by a further 2p during the week ended October 8 to stand at 193.78p/kg, led by falls of 4p in Spain, 3p in Germany and 2p in France.

“The EU reference price is now nearly 22p down on its mid-July high, while the latest drop has increased the gap between the UK and EU reference prices to beyond 25p, compared with a low of just 6p during the week ended July 23. Prices in a number of EU countries, led by Germany, fell back further last week.”

Estimated Great Britain slaughterings remain “well below” year earlier levels, the trade association for UK pig farmers said.

“The figure for the week ended October 14 was down by more than 1,000 on the week, at 160,300, 27,500 down on the same week in 2022,” it said.

“The figure quote last week for the week ended October 7, 169,000 has been significantly revised downwards to 161,600, also 27,000 down year-on-year, while all the figures quoted for a number of weeks prior to that have also been notably reduced.

“Having topped 90kg for the first the time last week, average carcase weights in the SPP sample moved up by a further 0.27kg to 90.58kg, having spent the entirety of 2023 until early October averaging 88-89kg. The latest figure was 0.3kg down on a year ago.”

London feed wheat was quoted by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) on Wednesday at around £190/t for November, up by £8 on a week ago, and £195/t for January, £7 up on last week.

The post UK pig price continues to fall, but at a slower pace than EU countries – NPA appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

To control, manage and treat infectious lameness on farms, footbathing of herds is required – especially during the housed period when infection pressure in high.

Lameness is an issue that has to be managed on all dairy farms, with a wide numbers of causes potentially at the root of issues.

Heading into the housed period, issues which cows may already have which occurred during the grazing season, can be exacerbated – due to hard flooring and increased infection pressure.

Also during the housed period, issues with lameness can develop, particularly concerns like infectious lameness such as digital dermatitis.

Lameness

To control lameness within dairy herds, footbathing of cows has a vital role to play.

If issues relating to infectious lameness, such as digital dermatitis and slurry heel have been identified within your herd, you should consult your vet about which footbathing solution is the best option.

Depending on the issues, products used for footbathing include formalin, copper sulphate and a number of other commercial products containing peracetic or organic acids.

Antibiotics are not licensed for use in footbaths because this contributes to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), environmental contamination and ineffective treatment of the underlying disease.

The frequency with which cows need to be footbathed depends on the prevalence and severity of the disease within the herd.

According to Animal Health Ireland (AHI), it is best to consult with your vet to determine the best routine for your herd.

Herds with a high prevalence of digital dermatitis may need to footbath after every milking until the disease is under control.

Herds without a digital dermatitis problem may not need to footbath at all, but this will all depend on the advice of your vet.

For herds that currently do not have an issue with infectious lameness, you should continue to focus on biosecurity measures.

If you are operating a closed herd, you should continue to do so.

If you are purchasing in animals, you should be footbathing all animals on arrival and they should be quarantined for at least two weeks.

Their hooves should be checked regularly to ensure they are free from digital dermatitis and other types infectious lameness.

The post Footbathing to keep lameness under control within your herd appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Two young people from Northern Ireland, aged between 18 and 24, will have an opportunity to speak at the 2024 Nuffield Farming Conference.

The three–day event takes place in Belfast between November 19 and 21 next year.

The selected duo will be part of the Nuffield Farming ‘Next-Gen’ Scholarship Programme.

A pilot scheme for the programme will run in 2024. It will be open exclusively to young people in Northern Ireland with a demonstrable interest in the dairy industry.

Nuffield

Tom Rawson, vice-chair of Nuffield Farming scholarships, attended the recent launch of the ‘Next-Gen’ programme, held at the Agri-Food and BioSciences Institute (AFBI) in Hillsborough.

He confirmed the significance of the new scholarship and its specific relevance to Northern Ireland’s dairy sector.

“Next-Gen will provide young people, aged between 18 and 24 with an opportunity to secure an in-depth knowledge of the UK’s dairy farming sector in 2024.

“It will also allow the scholarship recipients, and all the initial applicants, to find out more about Nuffield farming scholarships and the key role played by the Nuffield organisation at the very heart of the farming and food industries,” he said.

Scholarship programme

Two applicants will be selected by the Northern Ireland Nuffield Farming Association to take part in a fully funded, 30-day dairy sector study programme in the UK during the early summer of 2024.

The programme aims to give young people the opportunity to develop their understanding of the industry, while also building networks and future opportunities.

The application period for the ‘Next-Gen’ scholarship is already open, it will close on January 31, 2024.

Interviews for shortlisted applicants will take place in early February 2024, and scholarship recipients will be announced by the end of that month.

Dairy

The study tour is supported by the Nuffield Farming Dairy Group and will provide an overview of the UK dairy industry.

The scholars will participate in a dairy tour in North Wales, and visit more than ten other dairy businesses.

In addition, the scholars will be assigned a mentor and give a presentation about their experiences at the 2024 Nuffield Farming Conference, which will be held in Belfast.

Following a successful pilot programme, the Next-Gen Scholarship will be made available to young people across the UK in a variety of sectors, with up to six scholarships awarded each year.

Rupert Alers-Hankey, director designate of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust, said that the programme aims to develop young talent within the industry.

“It is an exciting initiative for Nuffield Farming and forms an important part of our commitment to leading positive change in agriculture.

“We hope that taking part in the programme will enable young people to establish themselves in the industry, while also getting a flavour of all that Nuffield Farming has to offer.

“Launching our pilot programme in Northern Ireland is particularly special as the Nuffield Farming Conference returns to Belfast in 2024,” he said.

The post Nuffield launches ‘Next-Gen’ scholarship programme in NI appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The main message for livestock farmers in relation to liver fluke this year is to “test, don’t guess’.

Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) and Control of Cattle Parasites Sustainable (COWS) have labelled 2023 as a “very strange year” in terms of weather patterns and parasites.

On behalf of COWS, Prof Diana Williams of the University of Liverpool said:

“2023 has been a funny old year. A very dry cold spring was followed by a hot early summer and then July and August were extremely wet.

“Top that off with the mini heatwave in early September accompanied by heavy rain, and it is fair to say there will be an impact on levels and timing of the risks faced by grazing livestock this season.”

Fluke forecast

The National Animal Disease Information Service’s (NADIS) fluke forecast, which is based on local weather patterns, is generally predicting a low-to-medium risk, with the exception of high-risk hotspots in Scotland.

SCOPS and COWS said this is almost certainly due to how dry it was at the start of the year and, while recent months may have been ideal for the fluke and snail lifecycles, the total window for their development has been relatively short.

“Liver fluke and its intermediate host, the mud snail galba truncatula, require temperatures of more than 10^o to remain active and continue development, so if we have a warm autumn and early winter the risk may still increase later in the year, particularly if the conditions also tempt farmers to keep their livestock out later,” Williams said,

“The serum antibody ELISA test, which is done on blood samples taken from 10 individuals is an extremely valuable tool in these circumstances.

“Using this test, we can monitor lambs or calves born in 2023 to look for evidence of exposure to liver fluke.

“Repeated at regular intervals, this not only means we can check for exposure but also when that exposure occurs, which reduces the risk of unnecessary or mistimed treatments.”

SCOPS

SCOPS independent sheep consultant, Lesley Stubbings, said: “Anecdotally, we’ve not seen much liver fluke across the country this year so far.”

In contrast, Stubbings highlighted the increase in cases of haemonchosis in sheep, which is caused by the highly pathogenic roundworm haemonchus contortus  (also known as the barber’s pole worm).

“The conditions in the UK this summer and last summer have seemingly suited this worm, which is common in many tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world,” Stubbings said.

“Because clinical signs of anaemia, bottle jaw and weight loss can result from the blood-feeding behaviour of either liver fluke or haemonchus, this can be confusing.

“Differential diagnosis is all the more important and underlines the need to ‘Test, don’t guess’.”

Testing

Experts from both SCOPS and COWS have urged caution to any producers looking to use the ELISA test but thinking of trying to cut the cost by pooling blood samples rather than testing individuals.

“The sensitivity of a pooled test is much lower and may give a negative result even though one or more animals are positive,” Stubbings said.

“This means that tests need to be done more regularly (every 10-14 days) to try to ensure the exposure is not missed, which will probably cancel out any cost saving compared to individual blood testing every three to four weeks.”

The post Liver fluke: SCOPS and COWS urge farmers to ‘test, don’t guess’ appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

While in attendance at the Sommet de l’Élevage agricultural show which took place in France earlier this month, Agriland met a French-based machinery importer who is sourcing slurry systems built in Co. Armagh.

Luc Jeannerot is the boss of the French machinery importer Agro Jeannerot which is based near Switzerland in a region known as Franche-Comté.

He explained he first saw the slurry-systems which are built in Co. Armagh at the National Ploughing Championships and saw an opportunity for the machinery in the French market.

Speaking to Agriland, Luc said: “I buy SlurryKat equipment and sell it to French dealers. We then go out to the farm to set up the machines along with the farmer.”

He explained that the umbilical slurry-spreading system in France was “not that popular” but noted that biogas companies in France have growing volumes of slurry to spread and said “the umbilical system is the best way to increase output”.

“I first discovered SlurryKat at the National Ploughing Championships in Ireland. I said ‘this is something we need to introduce in France’.”

He said that most slurry is spread by tankers in France due to fields being “dispersed” but believes that with growing farm sizes and expanding biogas companies, the umbilical systems will be more common in the future.

Also at the stand was the SlurryKat European sales manager, Niall O’Neill who said the product is gaining traction in the French market now because of “forward vision”.

He explained that from 2025 onwards, the spreading of slurry with splash-plates will be phased out in France and the future of the slurry-system market in France will be for low emission slurry spreading (LESS).

Luc said the umbilical LESS systems can handle “big volumes of slurry” with trucks bringing slurry to the field and an umbilical system spreading in the field.

Niall said that machinery cooperatives known as CUMAs have a strong influence and that the company has been working to raise awareness of its range in these cooperatives.

SlurryKat is based outside Portadown in Co. Armagh and Luc said that machinery produced on the island of Ireland is associated with being “heavy duty” in the French market due to the tough conditions in Ireland.

The post Video: French machinery importer buying plant built in Armagh appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The back end of this summer saw a massive burst of marketing activity as the agricultural machinery industry laid on demonstrations of all their latest products before their appearance got swamped by the tsunami of news from Agritechnica.

It was a busy period for members of the media with a good deal of travel involved and some events being missed due to a clash of dates.

However, from the melee, there emerged several trends that are likely to shape the industry in both the long- and short-term.

Adoption of organic techniques

As regularly reported by Agriland, there is a great move towards mechanical weeding and shallow cultivation with companies such as Lemken, Pottinger and Kverneland all buying up specialist companies which have, in the main, being developing machines for organic farming.

Over the last year there has been the opportunity to see several of these implements at work in the field, in circumstances that were never the most challenging.

While they performed as claimed, there remains the suspicion that they are tools that tend to require specific conditions in which to work well, and those conditions are only present in Ireland on a very occasional basis.

These implements cost tens of thousands of euro; justifying that expenditure will require them to be used regularly, something which might not be possible in a wet season.

The plough, as all plough makers confidently state, is going to be with us for a long time yet.

Cover crops highlighted by industry

However, that does not mean to say that nothing can be learnt from the overall approach and they are not all beyond consideration.

Sky’s Methys HDS hybrid disc cultivator, for instance, could well be useful in the establishment and destruction of cover crops, and with the need to keep the tillage fields green.

By treating this part of the growing cycle as an integral part of the rotation, rather than an irksome regulation to be met, tools of this type may have a place.

Likewise the attempts to bring digital tech to daily farming operations.

Cameras and computers that are designed to recognise crop rows and differentiate between plant species are gaining in capability at a rapid pace.

Both Kverneland and Pottinger demonstrated systems that guide soil engaging implements between rows.

However, it was noted that satellite navigation will only give the position of the tractor, which is not accurate enough for interrow cultivation due to the implement being placed at a small distance from the receiver.

None of these ideas for displacing the sprayer and herbicides are entirely applicable to large cereal acreages, but if they do become so, then truly the age of mechanical weeding will be upon us.

Carbon and the environment

It is not at all apparent that machinery manufacturers are totally onboard with the Green Party’s more extreme warnings of immediate doom unless we stop farming altogether, which will be even more disastrous.

Questions were raised on several occasions during the various media meetings with regards to the scale of the problem and the manufacturers approach to dealing with it, and only the one was answered unequivocally.

It was asked of a tractor manufacturer, which had been regaling us with its green credentials, if it still intended to sell the more polluting Tier Three engined models in markets that did not demand the standards that are required in the west.

The commendably honest answer was yes, it does, which undermines the industry’s attempts to present itself as a paragon of environmental virtue, but the company concerned is not alone in this by any means.

Another point raised was the conflict between feeding a global population of eight billion people, which is aided by increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, and the harm we are led to believe is being done to the environment.

There was no definitive answer to this, nor to the enquiry as to what should be considered the optimum atmospheric CO2 level, to which there was no answer at all.

If the agricultural industry is to be required to make dramatic changes to its practices in order to reduce CO2 levels, then it would only be fair that a definitive target is given, but that has not been forthcoming.

Industry adapts to computing and AI

As mentioned above, there is a great deal of work being done by the industry on the application of digital technology and artificial intelligence (however AI may be defined) to the operation of tractors in the field.

The industry has also been keen to tell us of its future plans for the role of digital technology in farming generally, plans which are often difficult to fully comprehend, couched, as they often are, in the language of software engineers.

Yet, cutting away at the jungle of jargon, there appears two main fronts, the first is increasing automation while the second is the collection and management of data and the implementation of decisions based upon it.

Naturally the two overlap, and while there is a great deal of visionary talk about both, the use of it in the field still lags way behind what we are told is currently possible.

Automation by increment

Greater automation is, however, enjoying some success with headland management systems being one obvious application that is being readily adopted and appreciated by operators.

Specialist crop growers are also making full use of the impressive accuracy off RTK satellite navigation, but other than fertiliser application, its full benefits have yet to percolate down to everyday farming, in Ireland anyway.

Talk of full tractor autonomy has subsided to a large degree; it is now referred to as something that will happen one day, rather than tomorrow, while any legislative hurdles it might encounter are not dwelled upon at all.

There is a realisation that, contrary to the expectation of big tech, achieving full tractor autonomy is an incremental process and will not happen overnight.

The talk among engineers now is of taking steps towards that goal.

Data collection and its management is still considered a large part of the future of farming but such is the amount that can be produced the emphasis is now on what to do with it all.

Machinery companies are quick to adopt systems that can produce data such as crop yield, and they are also rapidly developing methods, such as section control, which can utilise management decisions based on that data.

Unfortunately there is still a clear link between the two missing, that is universal and can be adopted and understood by all farmers and operators.

Sadly, there was little indication among last summer’s flurry of activity that this is being addressed.

The post Machinery Focus: Industry looks at carbon, cultivation and computing appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

National potato supplier Branston has announced plans to open a mashed potato facility to produce and supply leading UK supermarkets.

The facility is due to open by spring 2024 and will be lead by production manager, Wayne Mansfield.

The company currently handles 350,000 tonnes of potatoes for fresh and prepared products and the mashed potato facility will expand its capabilities.

Speaking on Branston’s new mash facility, Mansfield said: “We’ve seen demand for prepared potatoes growing over the years and mash was one product that we weren’t able to produce in-house.

“It needs highly specialised equipment to produce the quality and consistency as well as the right potatoes. 

“With our potato expertise and access to the best varieties it was a natural decision for Branston to invest in a mash facility.”

Mashed potato facility

Mansfield said Branston got the go-ahead last October and, after sourcing the best possible kit, construction began in March of this year.

“We’re aiming to begin commissioning in December, ready for technical validation of the product range early in 2024,” he said.

“The build is well under way, and we’re installing state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the process is as efficient as possible, transforming fresh potatoes into chilled mash in under two hours.

“I’ve been in the food industry for 25 years and leading this project for Branston is a fantastic opportunity, to see it from build right through to production.

“We’ve carefully sourced machinery for the latest innovations available creating a highly automated yet flexible process, all of which supports full crop utilisation and efficiency.” 

Products

The new Branston facility will feature two main lines producing 14 different products, ranging from ready-to-eat mash, to artisan root vegetable recipes, and topped jacket potatoes.

Branston said the facility is expected to output 23 million packets of mashed potato in the first year.

Group managing director of Branston, Jim Windle, said: “This new facility has been in our plans for some time and now we’re just a matter of months away from starting to produce samples – it is fantastic to see it approach fruition.  

“Previously, we sent peeled potatoes away to a third-party facility to be mashed, however, to improve efficiency and sustainability, it made sense to develop a solution in-house where we know we can get the best out of every potato and use the right varieties for the right products.

“This will not only improve the consumer product, but also make the supply chain more sustainable.”

Jobs

Branston will hold a ‘Monster Mash’ recruitment event at the Branston site on Tuesday, October 31, between 1:00p.m and 7:00p.m for the new facility.

“We are very excited to be bringing 90 incremental new job opportunities to Branston and the surrounding Lincoln area,” Windle said.

“These roles will be specialised due to the technical nature of the production line and will include engineers, machine technicians, line operatives, section managers and a host of other positions.”  

The post Branston announces plans to open mashed potato facility in spring 2024 appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

This year’s Scottish Ploughing Championships will be held in Ayrshire for the second time ever in its 59-year history.

The event, which takes place on Friday, October 27 and Saturday, October 28 at Monktonhill Farm, Prestwick, Ayrshire, will feature stands and activities as well as an educational area, run by the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET), for children.

Director of the Scottish Ploughing Championships management committee, Hugh Currie, said:

“We are very grateful to the owners of Monktonhill Farm for allowing us the space to host this year. Ayrshire is traditionally a livestock area and so it’s superb to find such a top-quality arable farm keen to work with us.”

Scottish Ploughing Championships

For this year’s Scottish Ploughing Championships, event organisers have said a ploughman will be coming out of retirement.

“For 2023, one of the best ploughers in the world, Andrew Mitchell Snr., is coming out of retirement and competing at Monktonhill Farm and so competitors are gearing up for a tight contest,” event organisers said.

“Mr. Mitchell has rarely been beaten on home soil and a number of competitors are keen to give him a run for his money.

“Winners of certain classes also get the opportunity to compete at the World Ploughing Championships in Estonia in 2024 and so there is much to plough for,” they said.

Currie said this year’s event has “17 different classes which include small tractors, vintage ploughs, horses and the chance for young people to get involved and compete.”

“We also have competitors from all four nations this year, for the first time in a while, so it’s great to have some nationwide competition. Ploughing is highly competitive and it isn’t easy,” he stressed.

“The best way to explain good ploughing to a non plougher would be that you’re aiming for the ground to look like corduroy – dead straight, all the same, nice and even and dead level.

“Each competitor hones his or her equipment like a Formula 1 racing car and it really is a case of marginal gains – combined with a bit of luck.”

‘A great day out’

Currie said the Scottish Ploughing Championships are a great day out for farming and non-farming people and families.

“We have vintage machinery, three pairs of horses coming along to do a demonstration, trade stands, food stalls, craft stalls and lots to see and do,” he said.

“It’s a great fun day with the chance to meet old and new friends and socialise. There is also a farm shop on site for those wishing to stock up on local produce.

“The championships have also paired up with RHET, the Royal Highland Education Trust, with four schools visiting on the Friday and a classroom on wheels open on the Saturday for children and families to pop in and learn more about food, farming, and ploughing of course.”

The post Scottish Ploughing Championships to be held in Ayrshire for the second time appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

As part of the farm-tours section of the Sommet de l’Élevage livestock show which took place in France earlier this month, Agriland travelled to a dairy farm that is milking 250 Alpine goats, located to the north of Clermont Ferrand.

The farm is owned by Carole Neyrial who is the sole employee of the 40ha enterprise. The goat’s milk is sold for cheese processing.

The current milk price is 90c/L (78p/L) but milk prices generally vary from €0.80-1.00/L (70p/L-87p/L).

The price paid depends on both markets and milk constituents. Milk is stored in a cooler tank and is collected by the processor every second day.

Carole explained that prices tend to be higher during the winter months which is why she has selected this system.

Goats are milk recorded and the average production is 860L/goat milking from September to June. Some of the top-performing goats are producing in excess of 1,000L/year.

The average fat content of the milk produced on the farm is 4.17% and the average protein content is 3.54%.

Goats are fed grass and clover silage as well as lucerne hay and meadow hay. The concentrate ration includes ingredients such as maize, bran, soya pulp, sainfoin and extruded linseed.

Goats kid from September onwards and milking continues until June with goats dried-off for July and August.

Breeding generally commences in April and every year, 50 of the top-performing goats are selected for breeding with artificial insemination (AI) and the remainder are served naturally with the use of 10 Alpine bucks.

Goats kid at 12 months-of-age and enter the milking herd then. When giving birth, goats can produce anywhere from 2-5 kids generally.

The AI-bred female kids are used as replacements. The AI-bred male kids are used for breeding also and the remainder of the kids are sold for either meat production or to other dairy herds for replacements.

Goats are seasonal breeders and naturally come into season when the daylight hours become shorter. Because of this, the breeding herd is kept in a shed where the lighting is controlled.

The shed used is a converted pig shed with open plan pens and a straw-bedded floor. The milking parlour is located to the rear of the shed.

Goats are milked twice-a-day and the milking parlour is a 24-24 rapid exit BouMatic goat-milking parlour with automatic cluster removers (ACRs).

Goats enter the parlour from the side and receive concentrate feed which is delivered through an auger system.

Once milking is complete, the front of the parlour lifts up and the goats can then exit.

There is no shortage of machinery on the farm (see images below).

The farm is located 250m above sea level and has a sandy-loam soil type. The farm generally receives an annual rainfall of 650mm.

Land in the region trades at €4,000/ha (£3,5000/ha) approximately.

The post Receiving a 90c/L milk price on 250-goat farm in France appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The heady days of 2022 when order books were full and waiting times were extended, are rapidly fading into the past as industry confidence drops in Europe and overall tractor sales fall in both Ireland and North America.

CEMA the umbrella organisation for European trade associations has reported a rather depressing outlook growing within its membership, while the Association of Equipment manufacturers (AEM) has noticed a sharp decline in sales of smaller tractors although larger units, above 100hp, are still in demand.

Tractor registrations in Ireland

Meanwhile, in Ireland tractor registrations are also showing a sharp decline compared to September last year, although sales, to date, are still up on the same nine months of 2022.

It would appear that dealers do not have too much to complain about and few, if any, are.

This year there have been 2,033 tractors registered so far which is 45 more than the five-year average, and it is second only to 2021 out of those five years.

From that perspective there is little for dealers to complain about and few are, but there is also a sense of change in the air as the quiet confidence of 12-months-ago has given way to the almost universal sentiment that 2024 is going to be ‘interesting’.

Glum clouds over Industry

This aura of uncertainty is reinforced by the latest report from CEMA which notes:

“The general business climate index for the agricultural machinery industry in Europe remains in negative territory showing little change compared to September after the sharp declines of the previous months.

“In October, the index decreased from -31 point to -32 points (on a scale of -100 to +100),” CEMA added.

The index is based on a monthly questionnaire sent to what are described as 140 senior managers in the agricultural machinery business, and a summary of their responses does not bode well for the immediate future.

A sizeable 42% of the respondents classed their present situation as unfavourable or very unfavourable, while 57% expected their turnover to decrease, a figure which has hardly changed from September, but is 11% up from August.

It must be noted that these are subjective rather than hard-nosed actual figures, but there is no doubting the change in sentiment that hit the industry as the holidays ended.

Big tractors boom in America

Over in the US there is a similar air of resignation to fate as sales of all tractors have declined by 8.2%, year to date, over the same period as last year.

This fall was led by the continuing drop in sales of sub 40hp tractors which fell by 11.2%.

However, there was some good news for the industry as sales of tractors of 100hp or more were up 7.6% from last September, while those of 4WD tractors rose by a whopping 114% compared with the same month last year.

This sudden interest in large 4WD tractors appears to stem from the realisation that large tracked machines have inherent advantages over 2WD machines or tyre shod articulated units.

The post Machinery industry returns to period of sobriety appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Ahead of this year’s autumn statement, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has written to Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt to ask him to provide the “ever-increasing” certainty that the farming sector seeks.

NFU president Minette Batters’ overarching message to the chancellor ahead of the autumn statement was that running a food and farming business at the moment is “tough”.

Hunt is set to unveil his autumn statement to the House of Commons on November 22, 2023.

Batters said the need for stability and certainty in the agricultural sector is “fundamental to enabling long-term business investment decisions”.

“At this year’s autumn statement, the chancellor could really inject some much-needed stability and confidence into the UK’s food and farming sector,” she said.

“As well as delivering short-term certainty, the NFU’s asks will also help build the foundation for a long-term farming framework, incorporating both public and private finance, to deliver the country’s environmental, productivity and food security needs.”

Energy, ELMs and tax

Batters said that, over the last two years, the UK government has had to intervene to support domestic and commercial consumers access affordable gas and electricity.

“Whilst Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been a clear catalyst and driver of energy market volatility, the market infrastructure for commercial energy has facilitated extra risk,” she said.

“The NFU is calling for a HM Treasury review into long-term energy contracts in the commercial sector and improved transparency in this market, making it easier for businesses to select which provider/contracts suit their needs.”

The union is also calling on Hunt to “remove the uncertainty” over the tax treatment of agricultural land entered unto environmental schemes, especially under the UK government’s own Environmental Land Management schemes (ELMs).

Currently, agricultural property relief (APR) is available on agricultural land whether used by the owner or a tenant.

“Whilst many of the options available under ELMs in England would not result in land ceasing to be in agricultural use, there is some uncertainty around some options,” Batters said.

“We gathered views from our members and responded to the consultation on APR, stating that the government must remove this uncertainty – or risk undermining the confidence in and uptake of these schemes, as well as the government’s own environmental ambitions.”

Where income tax is concerned, Batters said that she is worried that the requirements imposed on NFU members will be “disproportionate, administratively burdensome and extremely costly”.

“We are asking for concerns around quarterly updates and Basic Period Reform to be addressed and for specific easements be applied to a minority of businesses including removing the quarterly update requirement,” she said.

Environmental markets and the future

Environmental markets are an emerging area of interest to farmers but are currently poorly defined and largely unregulated, Batters said.

“The NFU believes a HM Treasury led cross-government taskforce is best placed to ensure the regulation and oversight of environmental markets in the UK is fit for purpose.

“In order to ensure UK farmers can tap into the potential of new environmental markets, the government must devise effective governance mechanisms as soon as possible.”

Additional topics in Batters’ letter include asks on:

• The slurry infrastructure grant;
• Capital allowances for both incorporated and unincorporated businesses to help incentivise low-carbon investments;
• A further round of the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), with a longer timeframe and expansion to all rural communities.

The post NFU calls for certainty for the farming sector ahead of autumn statement appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Within this new range there are three models with a variety of coulter and seeding unit options – depending on application and the customers requirements.

All of the models have a 3m working width and either 24 rows at 12.5cm intervals, or 20 rows, each 15cm apart.

The key difference between each model, which are the 310, 320 and 330, is the type of coulter arrangement fitted to the individual machines.

The Sitera 310 can be fitted with Suffolk coulters; the Sitera 320 models feature a single disc coulter, while the Sitera 330 has Kuhn’s Seedflex 100 distribution seeding head, with double disc coulters arranged over two rows on a parallelogram and press wheel set-up.

Having these three options offers users the choice of a basic or more advanced seed placement to better suit their farming operation or budget.

Fewer horses needed

Power requirement is by no means excessive, as the range is aimed at tractors from 100hp up to 250hp and they are compatible with a number of the company’s power harrows which feature different rollers or tines to adapt to various soil types and working conditions.

Each seed drill has a 600L hopper, with the seeding unit fixed to the roller of the power harrow.

The design positions the weight closer to the tractor, allowing a closer centre of gravity to the tractor allowing it to be handled by smaller tractors.

The Sitera drills feature Kuhn’s Helica volumetric helical spline metering unit. However, users who would wish to increase the use can add an electrically-driven version on the Sitera.

This allows easier setup via an automatic calibration button; or manual adjustment of seed application rate from the tractor cab (using the terminal); or automatically via GPS.

Automatic seed control during headland turns via section control is also an option.

Controlling the Sitera

In-cab controls for non-Isobus tractors include Kuhn’s VT 30, CCI 800 or CCI 1200 terminals, which are are also used operators wanting to keep Isobus and tractor functions separate.

The VT 30 offers metering and drive wheel monitoring, tramline control, work records and a low-level seed sensor.

In the UK, prices start at £17,135 (€19,690) for the Sitera 320 M at 15cm row spacings.

The post New Sitera mounted drills for 3m harrows from Kuhn appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Five dairy and five pork UK exporters are set to join the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) at the Food and Hospitality China (FHC) event next month.

The event, which is Asia’s leading food and beverage show, will run from November 8-10, 2023, at the New International Expo Centre in Shanghai.

AHDB’s dairy export team will be in the British pavilion on a collaborative stand with the five UK dairy exporters.

The pork exporters will join the AHDB export team in the meat hall on the AHDB-hosted British meat pavilion.

The board said the event will provide a platform for pork exporters to meet existing customers and potential new ones from the key Chinese market.

AHDB senior exports manager, Lucy Randolph, said: “FHC will be the first time the AHDB dairy export team has been back to China in person post-pandemic and we are excited to be taking part with our exporters.

“China and other markets in the wider Asia region present significant opportunities for dairy exports. Consumers in China have a high regard for food safety and quality and the UK is well-placed to satisfy that demand.

“Our strong presence at the show will help play an important role in developing further export opportunities for the companies joining us.”

AHDB’s head of international trade development, Jonathan Eckley, said: “We are delighted to be back at FHC China.

“Despite current challenges on the global pig meat market, China remains a key market for the UK pig meat sector with carcase balance playing an ever more significant role.

“This was reflected in a 16% increase in volume of fifth quarter exports in the first half of 2023.”

Eckley said Food and Hospitality China will provide AHDB and its exporters with the platform to build on existing commercial relationships and develop new ones in the “important market” for the pig meat sector.

The post UK dairy and pork exporters to join AHDB at Food and Hospitality China appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The UK government’s Food and Drink Export Council (FDEC) is set to hold its first ever meeting in Perth, Scotland, next month.

The meeting, which will be held on Wednesday, November 8 during International Trade week at the Black Watch, is aimed at Scottish food and drink businesses already exporting that wish to expand and grow their exports.

The free to attend event will consist of interactive sessions on creating strategic export plans, understanding export markets and identifying and building relationships with overseas partners.

The FDEC is a collaborate expert committee comprised of representatives from the Scottish government, UK government, industry and other devolved administrations focused on boosting UK food and drink exports.

UK government minister for exports and co-chair of the FDEC, Malcolm Offord, said:

“This event will be a big help to any Scottish food and drink exporters who are looking to expand their sales abroad.

“We know there is huge demand internationally for the high-quality food and drink we produce here in Scotland, and the FDEC are looking to do all that we can to help businesses take advantages of the opportunities that are out there.” 

Scottish exports

The meeting is being delivered in partnership between the Department for Business and Trade and Scottish Development International (SDI) on behalf of the FDEC.

Global head of trade for consumer industries at SDI, Ewen Cameron, said: “Scotch whisky is the number one UK food and drink export, with Scottish salmon the UK’s leading food export.

“Scotland has a vital role to play in the success of UK food and drink exports, with this council meeting providing a platform to embed an appreciation and awareness of our strengths with council members and showcase some of our leading exporting companies.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with other council members, and bringing SDI’s deep knowledge of international growth opportunities, strong relationships with our portfolio of exporters, and effective international networks to deliver economic growth across all regions of Scotland.”

Chief executive of Seafood Scotland and founding member of the FDEC, Donna Fordyce, said the event is a perfect opportunity for Scottish food and drink businesses to learn more about export expansion.

“We know that many Scottish food and drink businesses are already exporting successfully in overseas markets,” she said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from your peers, find out what works – and what doesn’t – and build your overseas network too.

“This event will enable businesses to accelerate and refine their exporting ambitions in a welcoming and trusted environment.

“We will also be sharing expertise on how to reduce the administrative burden of exporting abroad, something we know will be very welcome.”

The post Food and Drink Export Council to hold first ever meeting in Scotland appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Property consultancy Knight Frank’s latest farmland index Q3 has revealed that an acre of land is now worth £8,951 on average, showing that farmland demand “remains robust”.

The farm and estates team of the consultancy highlighted that the acre average price across England and Wales represents an 8% increase on the year.

According to the latest report, the firm predicts that, by the end of the year, average values may reach £9,000/ac, which could suggest the farmland market is either at or very close to its near-term peak.

Beyond that, 2024 is expected to bring in a period of consolidation as supply and demand finds stability, Knight Frank said.

Head of rural research at Knight Frank, Andrew Shirley, said: “Our latest Q3 figures show that demand for farmland remains robust, particularly among farmers who have sold land or faced compulsory purchase for housing and infrastructure projects like HS2, as they seek to reinvest their capital gains. In specific regions, this heightened demand has driven prices above £15,000/ac.

“However, environmental buyers, who have also been active in this market, are reportedly showing slightly less enthusiasm due to uncertainties surrounding the development of nature-based finance frameworks in the UK”.

Farmland values

Despite historically low levels of publicly advertised farmland, Knight Frank believes that there are a few indications of a “significant surge” in the coming year.

In Knight Frank’s annual flagship report, the Rural Report, the highest value of prime arable land that can be achieved sits across south west, south east, eastern and north east regions, where they can reach up to £12,536/ac.

Head of rural research at Knight Frank, Andrew Shirley, said: “Of the other asset classes Knight Frank tracks, only the FTSE 100 index, has significantly outperformed farmland in the past 12 months, boasting a remarkable 10% increase. Looking back over the last five years, farmland values have experienced a notable 27% growth, second only to gold, which saw an impressive 67% increase.

Head of farm and estates at Knight Frank, Will Matthews, said: “The land market continues to thrive with a minor uptick, showcasing its strength as we fight against inflation.

“There is a great deal of opportunity across the country, especially in the regional markets as premium land values continue soar to the top of the leader board.

“Currently, there is a lack of urgency to sell, resulting in a robust pricing for most of the stock, which is causing the gap between buyers and sellers to widen. However, despite this and increasing competition, quality stock is still in demand and selling well.”

The post Latest figures show demand for farmland ‘remains robust’ appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Suffolk County Council has agreed to pass a Conservative Party motion to support local farmers by ensuring all catering at council-organised events is sourced from them.

At Full Council yesterday (Thursday, October 19), the council committed to including meat and dairy options alongside plant-based produce.

53 councillors backed the motion, with three Green Party councillors abstaining from the vote.

This motion to back produce from farmers was proposed by deputy leader of Suffolk County Council, Cllr. Richard Rout, and seconded by cabinet member for public health and public protection, Cllr. Andrew Reid.

The motion aims to raise awareness of the importance of “hardworking farming communities” within Suffolk.

Cllr. Richard Rout said: “I’m delighted that this motion passed but it is disappointing that three Green councillors felt unable to support it.

“Coming from a farming family, I know first-hand just how hard our farmers and growers work to feed and sustain our nation. Agriculture and agribusiness are an integral part of our local economy.

“This motion not only commits us to doubling down on our support for local farmers but also ensures dietary choice at all our events, keeping meat and dairy firmly on the table alongside plant-based options.”

Plant-Based Treaty

Suffolk County Council said many Green, Labour and Liberate Democrat councillors who are members of authorities such as Edinburgh City Council, Norwich City Council, and Oxfordshire County Council have angered their farming communities by signing the Plant-Based Treaty or banning meat and dairy from their buildings and events.

The council said the Plant-Based Treaty “shuns” the construction of any future livestock farm and promotes plant-based foods in schools and hospitals as well as pledging to prioritise vegan food over animal products.

Cllr. Andrew Reid said: “We in Suffolk are rightly proud of our fantastic farming community.

“Through our county farm estate, which spans over 12,000 acres and contributes over £7 million to the local economy, we have 90 agricultural tenants who do so much for our county.

“I was delighted to second this motion and reaffirm our commitment to this vital sector.”

Councils ‘turning their backs on farmers’

Director of external affairs for the Countryside Alliance, Mo Metcalf-Fisher, said: “We have seen a number of local councils turn their backs on farmers in recent years with puerile motions that ban meat and dairy consumption and effectively warn the public off eating it.

“Rural communities have had enough and are fighting back. If we were to lose livestock farming – as is undoubtedly the aim of those wanting to impose plant-based eating – our countryside would turn into a barren wasteland.

“Red meat produced in the UK is among the most sustainable in the world, and it makes every bit of sense for local authorities to encourage the public to play their part in fighting climate change by sourcing seasonal and sustainable produce from local farmers and growers – irrespective of whether its meat or vegetables.

“We hope all political parties support this motion. The countryside is watching.”

The post Suffolk County Council agrees to support local farmers in its catering appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The consultation was on Northern Ireland’s 2030 and 2040 emissions reduction targets and the first three carbon budgets.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is seeking views on the advice of the CCC – which includes reducing dairy cattle numbers by 22%, beef cattle numbers by 17% and sheep, pigs and poultry numbers by 18%.

UFU president David Brown said that, while the union recognises that action is needed, that it “cannot support” any proposals to achieve net zero that will impact Northern Ireland’s food security and suppress the livestock industry.

“Cutting livestock numbers is not going to change consumer demand for dairy and meat. It will result in products produced to lower standards being imported to replace what we can no longer produce,” he said.

“If this happens, we wouldn’t be playing our part in tackling climate change, we would be passing the buck.

“We would be putting countries that have higher emissions from food production and are working to feed a growing global population, under pressure to produce more food.”

Sustainable food production

Brown said it is vital that a balance is found between sustainable food production in Northern Ireland and climate action.

“It’s critical that a balance is found between sustainable food production in NI which is the backbone of rural communities, and climate action to prevent carbon leakage,” he said.

“Especially when NI dairy farming has reduced its carbon intensity by 34% since 1990 and greenhouse gases from UK beef are about half the global average.

“Government needs to step outside their bubble and wake up to the social and economic impact their net zero targets in NI will create at home and abroad.”

Brown said the union is largely in support of DAERA’s alternative suggestion for reducing emissions from agriculture based on the policies and proposals within the Future Agricultural Policy Programme.

“This remains a very tough challenge for the industry, but we will continue to combat climate change,” he said.

“Agriculture is one of few sectors in NI that has policy ready, and a budget allocated to continue delivering climate action in line with the first carbon budget.

“It’s vital that policy supports us to do the same without supressing local farming.”

The post UFU opposes DAERA consultation on cutting NI livestock numbers appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Yara, one of the world’s largest fertiliser manufacturers, has today (Friday, October 20) reported that its third quarter (Q3) financial performance has been impacted by “strong price declines”.

The Norwegian company said that earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITA), excluding special items, was $396 million, down 62% compared with just over $1 billion in Q3 2022.

Revenue was down from $6.2 billion in Q3 2022 to €3.8 billion this year.

There was a significant drop in net income from $420 million in Q3 2022 to $2 million in the same period this year.

Yara

According to Yara, nitrogen markets experienced significant volatility in Q3. Lower gas prices and higher deliveries (+7%) were more than offset by a sharp drop in prices.

“The quarter began with swift nitrogen price responses to positive market news, with both improved demand and tighter supply.

“Demand softened in the mid-quarter as urea prices declined and European customers were reluctant to take further positions early in the new season,” the company said.

Yara said that although fertiliser affordability reduced during the quarter, it is still above historical averages, and optimal application rates are up compared to the 2022/23 season.

Production

During Q3, the company curtailed European ammonia capacity production by 6% to 80,000t, while finished fertiliser production was curtailed by 3% to 130,000t.

Yara warned that there is a risk of new nitrogen curtailments if slow European demand continues.

Based on current forecasts for natural gas, the company estimates that it s gas cost for Q4 will be $520 million lower than a year earlier.

“Although the season for the European nitrogen industry is off to a slower start than in previous years, fundamentals for the full season are supportive.

“Agricultural conditions are favourable, and industry consultants forecast increased cereal production in 2023/24, despite drought in several regions earlier this year,” Yara said.

Svein Tore Holsether, president and chief executive at Yara said that the nitrogen industry continues to operate in a lower margin environment.

“Although agricultural fundamentals are supportive, nitrogen markets remain sensitive to geopolitical and commodity market volatility.

“War, geopolitical instability, and the climate crisis are having major impacts on food security.

“It is therefore even more important to safeguard Europe’s strategic autonomy in within food and fertiliser, and to accelerate the green transition of European agriculture and industry,” he said.

The post Yara third quarter results hit by ‘strong price declines’ appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a new interactive map of reported wild bird mortality and findings of avian influenza in wild birds and wild mammals.

The department has also launched an interactive dashboard allowing the public to explore findings of bird flu in wild birds from the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s (APHA) surveillance programme.

The map and dashboard will be updated weekly, the department said. Collection information and test results may show as pending for recent reports.

Anyone wishing to view the map can customise it by selecting from the layer list which map elements they want to display.

A time slider can also be used to display data from a selected time period.

Bird flu in wild birds

Defra has practical information to support land managers, the public, and ornithological and environmental organisations in their response to the growing threat of bird flu.

The mitigation strategy for bird flu in wild birds in England and Wales explains how these groups, together with the government and its delivery partners, can reduce the impact on wild bird populations whilst protecting public health, the wider environment and the rural economy.

Landowners, local authorities and other organisations are advised to download and print bird flu posters to display on site when there is a risk of bird flu, or if bird flu has been detected in the area.

Dead wild birds can be reported via Defra’s website.

Kept birds

In the UK there were 207 confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 strain in the 2022 to 2023 outbreak season:

• 160 cases in England;
• 38 cases in Scotland;
• Eight cases in Wales;
• One case in Northern Ireland.

There have been 294 cases of the H5N1 strain of bird flu in England since the outbreak started in October 2021.

The post Defra launches interactive map of bird flu mortality in wild birds appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Staffordshire Police has appealed for information regarding the theft of nine pigs from a farm in Lichfield in two separate incidents.

In the first incident, which occurred on October 3, the force said three pigs were stolen from the farm on Tamworth Road, Lichfield.

The second incident involved the theft of six more pigs, which occurred between 6:00p.m on October 9 and 6:30a.m on October 10 at the same farm.

During this incident, another six pigs were left injured at the farm.

Staffordshire Police said it received the reports on October 11 and believe that the suspect or suspects drove up a track to gain access to the farm before leaving the scene with the stolen pigs.

The force said it is currently reviewing CCTV of the area at the time of both thefts.

“If you have any information, CCTV or dashcam footage that could help us with our inquiries, contact us on 101, quoting incident 230 of October 11, or use live chat on our website,” Staffordshire Police said.

Staffordshire animal welfare offences

Three Staffordshire farmers have been convicted for offences relating to animal welfare, cattle identification and movement rules.

51-year-old Charles Gibson and 44-year-old Alison Bailey, both of Leonards Farm, Hot Lane, Biddulph Moor, pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences at Cannock Magistrates Court in April this year and were sentenced on Tuesday (October 17).

Wheelton Farms Ltd, represented by its director Martin Wheelton from Millend Farm, Harbour Lane, Macclesfield, pleaded guilty to cattle identification and movement offences.

The farmers were prosecuted by Staffordshire County Council’s trading standards animal health team.

At the sentencing at Telford Magistrates’ Court, Gibson was given a 20-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to do 200 hours unpaid work. 

Gibson was also ordered to pay fines of £4,000, a victim surcharge of £128, and given a lifetime ban from keeping all animals.

Bailey was given a community order with 80 hours unpaid work, ordered to pay £1,000 costs and a victim surcharge of £90. She was also given a lifetime ban from keeping all animals. 

Wheelton Farms Ltd received fines totalling £32,000 and ordered to pay £7,500 in costs.

The post Staffordshire Police appeals for info after 9 pigs stolen from farm appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The National Sheep Association (NSA) has said that Red Tractor has “sideswiped” the sheep farming sector following the announcement of its Greener Farms Commitment (GFC).

The trade association for UK sheep farmers said it is “deeply concerned” that none of the detail of the commitment has been discussed with those directly impacted.

The NSA is calling for a “root and branch review” of the Red Tractor assurance scheme and its governance.

NSA chief executive, Phil Stocker, said: “NSA continues to support the concept of farm assurance as an open gate declaration of good practice.

“But we have long been frustrated that the scheme is losing its way and has become less relevant to sheep farmers with little acceptance of the unique nature of our sector.

“Most of the nation’s sheep farms are not big businesses with layers of management, but are family farms and single operators, many with little land of their own, and our sector still offers a valuable first step on the farming ladder for young new entrants.

“Becoming Red Tractor Assured presents a huge hurdle for many sheep farms, and for most of the sector’s routes to market it adds no value.”

Green farms commitment

NSA said the GFC takes Red Tractor into the realm of setting environmental policy in isolation rather than getting behind the key environmental and sustainable farming schemes being introduced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Following a meeting of the NSA English committee on Monday (October 16) NSA chair Kevin Harrison said:

“There is no doubt the feeling of the NSA English committee is one of a great deal of frustration and concern on how Red Tractor is forcing its vision of the greener farms commitment through without proper consultation, and without any understanding of the unique position sheep producers find themselves in. 

“It is quite telling that those responsible for the governance of the assurance scheme felt the need to work on this behind closed doors without even consulting their boards or technical advisory committees.”

Farming sector input

Stocker said that the recent announcement of the GFC with no practical input from the farming sector is “flawed and simply a step too far.”

“We do not accept this will remain a voluntary scheme and additionality like this comes with a cost that needs to be supported via market premiums or by full alignment with Defra’s Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and Countryside Stewardship schemes”.

We are frustrated by the fact there has been no consideration for the hundreds of sheep farmers who operate as graziers on other people’s land and have no influence on wider land management decisions, or direct access to SFI and similar schemes, yet do a great job within the boundaries of their authority”.

“We are not prepared to put at risk the social and cultural makeup of our industry in this drive for more industrialisation, supposed professionalisation, and red tape.”

NSA said it is especially concerned this development comes as “one of a litany of ill-thought-out decisions” from Red Tractor.

“This latest proposal has resulted in NSA calling for a review of the governance and direction of Red Tractor,” Stocker said.

“NSA is fully prepared to continue to work with the scheme in a constructive way, on the beef and lamb board and the technical advisory committee, but that doesn’t stop us from calling the governance of the organisation into question. 

“Furthermore, NSA is not prepared to be part of any development advisory panel for the greener farms commitment on the basis that the whole concept needs to go back to the drawing board with full debate and discussion with the farming community.”

The post Red Tractor has ‘sideswiped’ the sheep sector with GFC – NSA appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Three Staffordshire farmers have been convicted for offences relating to animal welfare, cattle identification and movement rules.

51-year-old Charles Gibson and 44-year-old Alison Bailey, both of Leonards Farm, Hot Lane, Biddulph Moor, pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences at Cannock Magistrates Court in April of this year and were sentenced on Tuesday (October 17).

Wheelton Farms Ltd, represented by its director Martin Wheelton from Millend Farm, Harbour Lane, Macclesfield, pleaded guilty to cattle identification and movement offences.

The farmers were prosecuted by Staffordshire County Council’s trading standards animal health team.

‘Extremely poor conditions’

In May 2020, Staffordshire County Council said welfare issues were found at a farm being run by Gibson and Bailey when livestock, including young calves, were found being kept in extremely poor conditions. 

A number of dead animals were found in pens with live animals, pens where livestock were kept were not suitable and had little food, water or dry lying was being provided to the animals.

With low value, untagged calves found at the farm which had been given to Gibson, Staffordshire County Council’s trading standards animal health team found that Wheelton Farms Ltd was complicit in the failure to comply with the traceability requirements for bovine animals.

The case, which the council said was one of the worse witnessed by the team, resulted in the animals being taken into the possession of the local authority at the time, in a bid to prevent further suffering. 

At the sentencing at Telford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (October 17), Gibson was given a 20-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to do 200 hours unpaid work. 

Gibson was also ordered to pay fines of £4,000, a victim surcharge of £128, and given a lifetime ban from keeping all animals.

Bailey was given a community order with 80 hours unpaid work, ordered to pay £1,000 costs and a victim surcharge of £90. She was also given a lifetime ban from keeping all animals. 

Wheelton Farms Ltd received fines totalling £32,000 and ordered to pay £7,500 in costs.

A ‘particularly upsetting case’

Cabinet member with responsibility for trading standards at Staffordshire County Council, Victoria Wilson, said: “Our animal health team work hard to make sure that livestock is looked after properly and there is the required traceability of animals.

“This is a particularly upsetting case involving a number of vulnerable, new-born animals where their basic needs for care and identification were not met.

“Thankfully, the vast majority of Staffordshire farmers and livestock owners take good care of their animals and follow the rules. However, on some occasions, we do see incidents where these standards are not met, as in this case.”

Wilson said the council was pleased that the court reached a “successful conclusion” and that this case should send a clear message that the council will take action to ensure the welfare needs of animals are met and that livestock identification and movement rules are adhered to.

The post 3 Staffordshire farmers convicted for animal welfare and movement offences appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The conference was launched at Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Hillsborough in Co. Down this week.

It is envisaged that around 30 Nuffield farming scholars will present their findings at the conference with over 400 delegates in attendance.

All regions of the UK and Ireland will be represented at the 2024 event.

Nuffield conference

The conference will be held at several well-known locations throughout the city, including the Belfast Assembly Rooms, Europa Hotel, and Titanic Belfast.

Next year’s conference will have a three-day agenda featuring a welcome buffet, a formal annual dinner, and two days of scholar presentations, including presentations from the first Nuffield Farming Next-Gen scholars.

“Belfast 2024 is already set to be an exciting conference with a packed agenda, reflecting the importance of the Northern Ireland in UK agriculture and beyond,” Rupert Alers-Hankey, director designate of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust confirmed.

“Delegates will hear from several year groups of scholars, with study titles that reflect the length and breadth of the UK food, farming, rural and land-based industries.

“We are also looking forward to hearing from our first Nuffield Farming Next-Gen scholars who will share their experiences from their 30-day study tour of the UK dairy industry.”

Scholarships

The Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust is a registered charity that provides funding to people with the potential to make positive change in food, farming, horticulture and rural industries.

Nuffield Farming scholarships are open to applicants between the ages of 22 and 45, with the aim of unlocking an individual’s potential and broadening horizons through study and travel overseas.

Scholars are able to travel anywhere in the world for a period of no less than eight weeks to further their knowledge and understanding of their chosen study topic.

On return from their travels, they present their findings, the conclusions they have reached and the recommendations to the industry in a variety of formats, including a written report and a presentation at the Annual Nuffield Farming Conference.

The scholars are also expected to use all other means at their disposal to spread the knowledge they have gained within their industry and beyond.

The post Belfast to host 2024 Nuffield annual conference appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

BVA president Anna Judson spoke at the BVA’s 2023 annual Northern Ireland dinner in Stormont yesterday (Wednesday, October 18) and warned attendees that Northern Ireland could lose access to 51% of vet medicines due to the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Judson raised concerns about the serious risk posed to public health and animal welfare if a permanent and sustainable solution is not found to ensure continued access to veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland beyond 2025.

“It is absolutely vital that high standards of animal welfare and public health is protected,” she said.

“Finding a permanent solution must be a top priority ahead of the grace period expiration in 2025 to protect animal welfare and protect public health.”

Judson praised BVANI’s work in securing the three-year grace period for veterinary medicine access, meaning that they continued as normal under existing regulations until 2025.

Animal health and veterinary education

Judson also stressed the importance of sufficient funding into animal health and biosecurity.

“Investment in animal health and biosecurity is also an investment in human and environmental health, and it contributes to the efficiency and sustainability of our food production systems and agricultural sector as a whole. It is vital that sufficient funding is allocated,” she said.

Judson said there is a great need for more accessible veterinary education in Northern Ireland, being the only part of the UK without a dedicated vet school.

She said this means that potential Northern Ireland students move away to study and that many do not return after qualifying.

“Tackling issues like this is very close to my heart: One way to do this is through the provision of inclusive veterinary education which helps to break down the economic, social and geographic barriers which may prevent students from entering the profession” she said.

“There is also the need to address the ongoing workforce shortage and the provision of local veterinary education could play a key role in this.”

Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966

Judson also spoke about the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, stating that it is no longer fit for purpose and fails to recognise roles such as veterinary nurses and vet techs.

She called for support as BVA continues to lobby the UK government for legislative reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act to bring about “much needed” UK-wide change.

“Veterinary nurses in my practice were highly qualified, experienced and important members of my team, and I find it incredible that this title isn’t protected, and anyone can call themselves a vet nurse. This must be rectified,” Judson said.

The post Permanent solution to vet medicines access in NI must be found – BVA appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The 2023 World Food Forum (WFF), which is taking place in Rome, Italy, this week, has highlighted how improving soil health and avoiding soil degradation can help address food insecurity and environmental challenges.

The WFF‘s science and information forum met today (Thursday, October 19) to discuss how new technologies for soil and water management can help to tackle and adapt to climate change.

The forum, which is hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN), showcased field examples, strategies, and management options in integrated and water management that have a direct impact on the livelihoods of small and medium holder farmers and their communities around the world.

Speaking at the forum, FAO director-general Qu Dongyu said: “We need to develop and strengthen integrated information systems to address pressing multisectoral challenges, which should be available to all, especially to farmers who are the custodians of our natural resources, as well as their final controllers.”

The forum heard that soil degradation, loss of water quality, and water scarcity are on the rise globally, limiting access to fertile and productive soils and water resources and contributing to food and nutrition insecurity.

Among the solutions highlighted at the science and innovation forum were innovations in re-carbonising soils, improving soil health, and enhancing water use efficiency.

As well as that, the forum discussed strategies for promoting integrated governance of natural resources and managing water scarcity, with the aim of strengthening the resilience of agri-food systems.

According to the FAO, average global crop yields could increase by 80% with more efficient water use, judicious fertiliser use, reduced pesticide use, and improvements in soil health.

The forum called for integrated, “climate-smart” land, soil, and water management technologies and practices, saying these are essential for improving efficiency and enhancing water and land productivity.

The forum also drew attention to the need for sustainable management of ecosystems in source areas and upper catchments, such as mountains, grasslands, and forests, which are deemed to be vital for ensuring a reliable and healthy water supply.

The forum called for governance actions to support innovative technologies like precision agriculture, remote sensing, and data analytics, which could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of integrated soil and water management.

The post World Food Forum 2023 highlights soil degradation and health appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Members of the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) are set to strike for five days, from October 30 until November 3, disrupting Northern Ireland’s ports and abattoirs.

DAERA warned that if the strike action proceeds as has been indicated, that there may be disruption to the flow of goods through the department’s sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) inspection facilities at Belfast Harbour, Larne Port, Warrenpoint and potentially the airports.

A spokesperson for DAERA said that, while the department has not been formally notified of strike action, that it expects to receive formal notification on the strike this week from NIPSA.

“If strike action proceeds as has been indicated, there will be significant disruption for meat processing establishments, which may present issues in relation to animal health and welfare, public health and continuity of the food supply chain,” the spokesperson said.

“DAERA is taking all steps open to it to mitigate these issues and maintain its essential statutory obligations and is working with its stakeholders, industry, and other partners to explore how the impacts might be alleviated.

“It will also continue to ensure all avenues are explored with trade union colleagues regarding any mitigations that can be put in place to alleviate disruption as far as possible.”

‘Meaningful pay’

NIPSA members working across the veterinary service in DAERA said they will protest the decision to impose a derisory pay award of £552 to all civil servants in Northern Ireland for 2022/2023.

The DAERA spokesperson said: “The department fully respects the rights of colleagues to take industrial action and regrets sincerely that the budget situation that civil servants are trying their best to manage, has meant that it has not been possible to provide a meaningful pay award for NI civil service staff.

“The department very much hopes that a resolution to the current position on NI civil service pay can be found as soon as possible.”

NIPSA members working in ports are set to walk out at midnight on Monday, October 30, and will then be joined by hundreds of members across the Veterinary Service Animal Health Group (VSAHG).

NIPSA’s general secretary, Carmel Gates, said: “Our members are fed up with derisory pay awards.

“They see their counterparts elsewhere on these islands receive significantly better pay and are no longer prepared to suffer in silence.

“They have been subjected to a sanctions budget which is intended to punish politicians.  Unfortunately, it is workers and public services that are being harmed.”

The post NIPSA strike could disrupt flow of goods into NI – DAERA appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

He was speaking at last weekend’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) annual conference, held in Belfast.

“Cattle and sheep numbers in Northern Ireland are exactly the same as they were back in the 1950s,” he said.

“What has changed though is the number of street lights and cars on the roads. Both these figures have increased 35-fold over the past 70 years.

“So, where climate change is concerned, policymakers should focus on those aspects of society, where we have seen dramatic increases in fossil usage over recent years.”

The run-up to Christmas will see Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) publishing carbon budgets for the next decade and beyond.

This is a direct follow-on from the climate change legislation passed by the Stormont Assembly in 2021.

Cattle and sheep numbers

Up to now, the public debate on carbon budgets has been very much framed by recommendations published by the UK’s Climate Change Committee (CCC).

These include a proposal to reduce livestock numbers by 20%.

DAERA has already indicated that such a step will not be included in the first tranche of carbon reduction measures for Northern Ireland. However, the measure could be introduced beyond 2030.

Prior to the demise of the Stormont Executive, Edwin Poots had shaped a number of changes to the farm policy supports available in Northern Ireland.

These included a bespoke suckler cow headage payment and a slaughter premium, designed to encourage the finishing of cattle at an earlier age.

“The slaughter premium will be introduced in 2024. There is a 12-month delay in the introduction of the suckler payment,” Poots said.

“But it will still be very much part of the new support measures, as the farming sector looks to the future.”

Edwin Poots said he buys-in to the principle of agriculture in Northern Ireland being placed on a more sustainable footing for the future.

Much of the climate change focus to date, has been placed on the role of methane as a greenhouse gas. This puts beef and sheep producers at the front and centre of farming’s response to this challenge.

The vast majority of beef and sheep farms in Northern Ireland are small, family-run businesses. Turnovers are small and their very existence is predicated on the availability of the basic payment.

The post Edwin Poots: ‘Cattle and sheep numbers should be retained’ appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

UFU president David Brown said Red Tractor’s greener farms commitment (GFC) should not have been developed and given the green light with the union’s scrutiny.

Brown said the measures of GFC, to be available to the supply chain from April 1, 2024, are already covered within Northern Ireland, or will be under new government policies.

“The UFU has long supported the Red Tractor Assurance Scheme as it is vital to allow our members to compete in the marketplaces in which they operate,” Brown said.

“Nonetheless, for the past 18 months, we have been robustly challenging the governance behind the development of this environment module.

“The UFU has not been involved with the development of this bolt-on module despite UFU representatives sitting on the advisory and sector boards.”

‘Unnecessary duplication’

Brown said, because most of the measures of the environment module are already covered in Northern Ireland, that introducing it to the Red Tractor Scheme will “create unnecessary duplication” which, he said, is unacceptable.

“From a farmer’s viewpoint, we are keen to move towards a more sustainable approach,” he said.

“The environment module is being publicised as a voluntary measure, but usually these ‘voluntary measures’ inevitably become an industry standard.

“It is only a matter of time until everyone will be required to adhere to it which would not be good for our members.”

Red Tractor

Red Tractor is a food and farm assurance scheme aimed at developing standards based on science and legislation that cover animal welfare, food safety and environmental protection.

Around 50,000 UK farmers are accredited to Red Tractor standards – which form the basis of buying and sourcing food for supermarkets and brands.

Red Tractor said the GFC module has been in the works since 2020.

“Red Tractor’s greener farms commitment is designed as a voluntary addition which will operate very differently from its typical core standards,” it said.

“It enables farmers to make commitments and track their own progress across five key areas for environmentally focused farming: carbon foot printing; soil management; nutrient management; waste management; and biodiversity.

“It will recognise other schemes or programmes such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and other devolved government schemes, reducing the cost and complexity, and making it as easy as possible for farmers to complete.”

The post UFU ‘challenging’ the introduction of new Red Tractor environment module appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The independent charity made a submission to a consultation from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) on Northern Ireland’s emissions reduction targets.

A 48% emissions reduction by 2030 and a 77% reduction by 2040 are considered by DAERA as required under the act, based on advice by the Climate Change Committee.

Agriculture is “uniquely placed” to capture the major greenhouse gas (GHG) carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and turn it into a wide range of food, fibres and fuels, Prof. Boyle said and added:

“Local farmers can and must be part of the climate change solution and with the right policy framework and support farmers can rise to the climate and food production challenges.”

In its submission AgriSearch highlighted the need for a balanced and scientific approach, and that DAERA needs to consider the consequences of its intended policy actions.

This includes ensuring the economic and social sustainability of farm businesses, the wider agri-food sector, and the rural economy in addition to the consideration of environmental issues.

Emissions reduction targets

AgriSearch said it is “exceptionally difficult” to assess the realism of the proposed reduction targets without an analysis of the technical measures to achieve these targets, which is yet to be published.

The government is obliged to treat sectors such as agriculture, land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), energy, transport, and waste separately for purposes of the GHG inventory, he said.

However, farmers as land users operate across three sectors – agriculture, LULUCF and energy – and it makes “no sense” to segment their activities as it is required, according to the chair.

He said it is important that credits for above and below-ground carbon sequestration can be applied to agricultural emissions which, as a biological system, “can never reach net zero”.

In its submission AgriSearch also highlighted the need for further investment in science, including social science, as farmers will be asked to make “significant changes” to their businesses.

Calculation

Prof. Boyle said that one of the main metrics used in the national GHG inventory, GWP100 is “flawed” as it does not fully consider the shorter-term impacts of methane in the atmosphere.

This, he said, leads to an “overestimation” of methane’s contribution to global warming patterns, and thus DAERA should apply GWP* which considers the shorter lifespan of methane.

“Alternatively, DAERA should consider the adoption of a twin-gas approach and establish a lower target for methane relative to other GHGs,” according to AgriSearch.

The post Proposed NI emissions reduction targets criticised appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

NIPSA members working across the veterinary service in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) will protest the decision to impose a derisory pay award of £552 to all civil servants in Northern Ireland for 2022/2023.

The strike will commence from Monday, October 30, and last until Friday, November 3, with NIPSA stating the action will be “significant” and disrupt the normal running of ports and abattoirs.

Members working in ports will walk out at midnight and will then be joined by hundreds of members across the Veterinary Service Animal Health Group (VSAHG).

Vets serve as inspectors in abattoirs for veterinary examinations of animals, and carry out assessments of adherence to rules by those who run it.

NIPSA’s general secretary, Carmel Gates, said: “Our members are fed up with derisory pay awards.

“They see their counterparts elsewhere on these islands receive significantly better pay and are no longer prepared to suffer in silence.

“They have been subjected to a sanctions budget which is intended to punish politicians.  Unfortunately, it is workers and public services that are being harmed.”

DAERA

Gates said there is a real and growing crisis in DAERA, with problems recruiting and retaining staff in the VSAHG, and the key reason is “historically low pay”.

“The latest paltry pay award, following decades of austerity and below inflation pay awards, is a further kick in the teeth to all hard-working civil servants,” she said.

“These members play a vital role in ensuring we have a safe food supply. Political decision makers have the power to address this issue by making the funds available to end pay inequality.

“There must now be urgent engagement with NIPSA and a commitment to provide the funds needed to resolve the dispute.”

The post NI vet pay strike to disrupt ports and abattoirs appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Completing a milk recording of your herd in the coming weeks is vital to ensure that you have up-to-date records on your cows ahead of drying-off.

These records are vital for tracking cell counts in cows, and for determining which cows will require antibiotics during drying-off.

Challenging weather conditions will have forced many farmers to house cows, while some have gotten back out to grass – some have not.

There is always going to be a certain amount of milk produced from the cubicle shed; however, it can put pressure on cell counts.

Milk recording

You should arrange a milk recording for your herd to help identify cows that may have somatic cell count (SCC) issues 45 days out from drying-off, at the latest.

During the year, at least four milking recordings should be completed, which means you will have a good amount of data on all your cows.

Not only does this allow you to select cows with SCC issues, it also helps to identify which cows are suitable for sealer only.

The cows that are deemed suitable will vary from farm to farm, with a number of factors having an impact on the cows that are selected.

These factors include: low SCC during lactation; having not had mastitis during lactation; and have no warts or other defects on their teat/udders.

You also need to consider your drying-off routine and the environment that the cows will be spending the dry period in.

If records show poor drying-off success such as a spike in mastitis cases shortly after calving, improvements likely need to be made.

They could be simple management practices such as ensuring that the cubicle shed is disinfected when not being used.

Drying-off

When it comes to drying-off, having high hygiene standards is vital, as well as selecting the right cows. If the process is not completed correctly, the results are unlikely going to be good.

During drying-off and during the dry period, any errors will be exposed when infection pressure is high.

The post Dairy advice: Organising the final milk recording appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The company is also planning to close the co-located research and development (R&D) centre by Q1 2025.

The announcement means that around 542 people working in the facility will now be placed at risk of redundancy.

“We will now consult with all employees and their representative unions,” a spokesperson for Nestlé said in a statement.

Infant formula

The company pointed to “external trends” which have “significantly impacted demand for infant nutrition products in the Greater China region”.

“The number of newborn babies in China has declined sharply from some 18 million per year in 2016 to fewer than nine million projected in 2023,” it stated.

“The market, which had previously been reliant on imported infant formula products, is also seeing rapid growth in locally-produced products,” the spokesperson said.

The company is proposing to transfer the production from Askeaton to two existing factories – Suzhou, China and Konolfingen, Switzerland.

Konolfingen is also home to Wyeth and Nestlé Nutrition’s global R&D centre of excellence for infant and maternal products.

It is proposed that R&D work at Askeaton would be absorbed into Konolfingen, where 365 staff work on research and product development across several disciplines.

A satellite R&D centre in Shanghai would be strengthened as part of the plans.

The company stated:

“These proposals have been carefully considered and are no reflection on the excellent contribution made by our employees in Askeaton over many years.

“To date, we have not been able to find a buyer. Therefore, we will commence a meaningful consultation process with our employees on a proposed closure.

“In parallel, during this consultation we remain open to approaches from a credible buyer,” the Nestlé spokesperson said.

Wyeth Nutrition

The facilities in Co. Limerick were part of Nestlé’s acquisition of Pfizer Nutrition in 2012.

Operating as Wyeth Nutritionals Ireland Ltd (WNIL), the factory manufactures infant formula products exclusively for export to markets in China and Asia.

The factory currently employs 491 people, while there are 51 staff at the R&D facility.

In a statement this evening Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney said his first thoughts are with the Wyeth workers and their families.

“It is hugely disappointing news as this facility has provided fantastic employment in Limerick and made a huge contribution to Ireland’s economy.

“Officials in my department will now begin a process of engagement with the management and workers in the company.

“The full range of state supports will be made available to the employees, and we will examine each and every option to ensure that the best possible outcome is reached for all concerned,” he said.

The post Nestlé proposes to close Wyeth Nutrition infant formula plant appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

While straw is in short supply in many places due to weather-related challenges in the tillage harvest this year, the City Bridge Foundation is lucky enough to be able to source its straw from a farm in Essex.

The City Bridge Foundation incorporated a straw bale as a measure to warn those travelling beneath the Millennium Bridge that the distance between the water and the bridge had changed, in what they called an “ancient tradition”.

If the City Bridge Foundation did not do this, it would be in violation of article 36.2 of the Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012.

Straw bale

According to the byelaw: “When the headroom of an arch or span of a bridge is reduced from its usual limits but that arch or span is not closed to navigation, the person in control of the bridge must suspend from the centre of that arch or span by day a bundle of straw large enough to be conspicuous and by night a white light.”

According to City of London Councillor for Bishopsgate, Benjamin Murphy, a layer of membrane needs to be replaced on the bridge, which “will also be cleaned up during the closure”.

The membrane separates the bridge’s steel structure from its aluminium bridge deck; and as a result of the work being done on it, the headroom under the bridge will be reduced.

The bridge, which opened on June 10, 2000, was the the first new pedestrian bridge to be built across the Thames for over a century.

It is set to reopen on November 5 at the latest, resuming the link between the City of London at St Paul’s Cathedral with the Tate Modern Gallery at Bankside.

The post Ancient tradition sees straw bale return to a London bridge appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

He confirmed that the organisation has attended all of the political parties’ annual conferences of recent weeks.

“And this will conclude with the Sinn Féin annual conference next weekend,” he said.  

“The UFU wants to see the re-establishment of the Stormont Assembly and Executive. There are a large number of issues that require an active involvement of local politicians.

“These include the establishment of a new bovine TB eradication policy and the development of future support policies for the sheep sector.”

Brown also indicated that a number of issues relating to the recent establishment of green and red lanes at ports and airports, for goods coming into Northern Ireland from Great Britain, need to be addressed as a matter of priority.

As part of the Windsor Framework, the new red/green lane measures came into effect on October 1, 2023.

One issue that has arisen over the past week relates to the importation of farm machinery into Northern Ireland.

David Brown explained: “Machinery entering Northern Ireland and destined to stay here can come in through the green lane.

“However, machinery items destined to be moved on to the Republic of Ireland, come under the criteria laid down within what’s called a Northern Ireland Plant Health Label, or NIPHL. These items must come in through the red lane.

“So, in other words, machinery importers in Northern Ireland must pay to have a phytosanitary certificate generated for all machinery destined for customers in the Republic of Ireland.

“A significant number of machinery dealers in Northern trade with customers south of the border.

“These issues relating to machinery imports coming in from GB have only come to light over the past few days. And I am not sure if all machinery importers are fully aware, as yet, of what the new requirements entail,” he added.

Brown said the UFU will seek clarification on this matter from the Cabinet Office in London as a matter of priority.

Ian Paisley MP aattended the DUP annual conference. He specifically highlighted the issues that had arisen over the importation of farm machinery from GB into Northern Ireland.

“I will be taking this matter up with the UK government as a matter of priority,” he said.

DUP on Vet medicines

Another outworking of the current Windsor Framework, that is a priority according to Paisley, is the pending threat of limitations being imposed on the numbers of veterinary medicines that can be imported into Northern Ireland.

“This measure is due to kick-in next year. If fully implemented it could strongly jeopardise the health and well-being of all farm animals in Northern Ireland,” he said.

Former Northern Ireland agriculture minister, Edwin Poots MLA, also attended the DUP conference.

Addressing the UFU’s concern regarding the future availability of support measures for the sheep sector, he said:

“Monies have been ringfenced to support the sheep industry. The problem relates to the development of a policy vehicle, which will allow this funding to be allocated.

“All of the post-Brexit support schemes have been designed to reduce the carbon footprint of the various farming sectors.

“Unfortunately, there is no universal traceability system operating within that sector at the present time.

“So, short of physically inspecting all flocks, it would not be possible to determine if a ewe lamb, as opposed to a hogget, had been put to the ram,” he concluded.

The post Ulster Farmers’ Union attends DUP annual conference appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The motivation behind this new enthusiasm is the desire to save fuel and conserve soil carbon levels by confining soil disturbance to the top few inches of the ground.

Sky Agriculture (formally Sulky) of Brittany is very much involved in this new wave of shallow cultivation techniques and the company runs an organic research farm close to its Chateaubourg base.

Two of Sky Agriculture’s most recent launches were demonstrated during the summer, one being the Methys Hybrid, and the other the Methys PCS.

The Methys Hybrid is described as a “stubble cultivator designed as a seed drill”.

By this the company means that is will disrupt a stubble and the weeds growing within it while, at the same time, sowing a cover crop via a small seed hopper or distribution head, fed from a front tank if desired.

Cover crop specialist

Working depth is between 4cm and 7cm and the discs are scalloped to ensure the maximum kill of weeds, or cultivated plants if it is being used to incorporate a cover crop.

Consistency of working depth is maintained by a set of support wheels leading in front of the implement and either a roller or bank of tyres that runs behind the discs.

This is an ideal tool for managing cover crops according to Sky, for it can be used to prepare and sow the crop and then incorporate it prior to the maincrop once the plants have done their job of retaining moisture and nutrients.

It is available in working widths up to 12m and has a power requirement of between 100hp and 400hp, depending on size.

Scalping the surface

The second machine being shown was the Methys PCS which is a totally new machine that works between depths of 2cm and 11cm.

It relies on banks of tines which are positioned well apart to prevent blockage and its purpose is to destroy weeds and cover crops while leaving the residue on the surface, to be dried out by the sun, before incorporation by a further pass of a cultivator or min-till drill.

Although the power requirement is low, and it is designed to reduce a weed burden, the suspicion remains that it is better suited to the more predictable conditions of France and the continent rather than wet Irish clays.

The post Going ultra shallow with Sky Agriculture appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Mark Donald Richardson (48) was sentenced in the Hamilton District Court yesterday (Tuesday, October 17) on two charges under the Animal Welfare Act that he earlier pleaded guilty to.

The sentence handed down by the court to Richardson followed a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

Sharemilker

Richardson, who was a 50:50 sharemilker, was in sole charge of a herd of about 165 cows at Te Awamutu between November 2015 and February 1, 2020.

He sold the herd and because the new owner noticed lumps in many of the cow’s tails, a veterinarian examined all the cows and found evidence of tail breaks.

“Mr Richardson admitted that he may have broken some tails accidentally, but 84 cows had injuries and would have suffered prolonged and significant pain, along with distress and the loss or damage to a body part.

“When we find evidence of animal neglect or deliberate abuse, we take action,” Richard Knight, MPI acting regional manager, said.

“MPI takes animal welfare very seriously. Most people in charge of animals treat their animals well.

“One of the disturbing aspects in this case was that four of these animals had to have their tails amputated because their injuries were so severe,” he added.

Cattle farmer

In a separate prosecution taken by MPI, a Northland beef cattle farmer was fined NZ$30,000 for failing to provide adequate feed for nearly 400 animals.

Jeffrey Allan Wood (69) pleaded guilty to six charges under the Animal Welfare Act and was sentenced recently in the Whangarei District Court.

MPI animal welfare inspectors found 387 cattle in poor physical health because of a chronic lack of grass, and a lack of supplementary feed.

“Most farmers do the right thing and Mr Wood is an experienced farmer and knew what he needed to do to feed and provide for the welfare of his animals,” Brendon Mikkelsen, MPI acting national manager of animal welfare and NAIT compliance, said.

“These animals were thin and fell well below meeting the standard of the Sheep and Beef Cattle Code of Welfare,” he said.

Complaint

Following a complaint from a veterinarian in July 2020, MPI sent animal welfare inspectors to Wood’s Ruawai farm to inspect 840 of his animals, over a series of visits until October 2020.

Some animals were affected by bad diarrhoea and emaciated.

In one case, when Wood was directed to euthanise a severely lame young bull to mitigate its suffering, MPI found it still had not been done a week later, which the farmer claimed was because he could not find the animal.

“These animals were suffering, and Mr Wood’s delayed action prolonged their suffering.

“He failed to meet the physical, health and behavioural needs of these animals.

“When we find evidence that animal welfare has been neglected, if appropriate – we will place the matter before the court,” Mikkelsen said.

Along with the fine, Wood was also ordered to pay NZ$2,834.80 in veterinarian expenses and NZ$6,057.97 in farmer consultant fees.

The post Home detention for New Zealand sharemilker who injured tails appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The warning follows the confirmation of EHD in France, and the recent spread of bluetongue (BTV) across Europe.

EHD was confirmed for the first time in Europe in October 2022 in Italy. It has since spread to Portugal, Spain, before reaching France.

The disease affects deer most severely, but clinical cases have been reported in cattle at multiple farms in these countries.

Several strains of BTV have been circulating in Europe, with nearly 800 outbreaks confirmed.

The Netherlands reported their first outbreak of BTV since 2009 in September, followed by the Belgium authorities in October.

Last month, French authorities confirmed the presence of a new strain of the disease, BTV-8, which is causing more severe clinical signs in cattle and sheep.

DAERA

DAERA is advising farmers to carefully consider the disease risks associated with sourcing animals from areas in mainland Europe where the viruses have been detected.

The department added that imported animals found to be infected with BTV will be slaughtered.

In addition, no compensation will be paid, and movement restrictions will be placed on the holding for several months while extensive surveillance is carried out to rule out further spread.

Housing and isolation of imported pregnant animals will also be required until the birth of the progeny, which must be tested with negative results before restrictions will be lifted.

Northern Ireland’s chief veterinary officer (CVO), Dr. Robert Huey said as both bluetongue and EHD are windborne vector diseases transmitted through midges, the main risk for Northern Ireland is the importation of infected animals.

“This was the case in December 2018, when the last detection of BTV was discovered in Northern Ireland, as part of the department’s routine post-import testing regime," Dr. Huey said.

“The disease was detected in a heifer imported from France to a holding in Northern Ireland.

“I would strongly encourage farmers to follow the DAERA guidance and to be aware of the significant risks and the potentially adverse consequences, both for themselves and for the industry, of importing animals from, or transiting through affected areas

“An incursion of bluetongue or Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease to Northern Ireland would result in the loss of disease-free status which would be devastating for the industry,” he added.

Farmers

DAERA has offered the following advice to farmers:

• Anyone who imports animals from a bluetongue affected area must ensure that the animals have been vaccinated against the disease prior to import;
• If the animals are pregnant, the vaccination must have been carried out so that the animal was immune before mating;
• These are legal requirements and conditions must be attested to by the certifying official veterinarian on the health certificate;
• Farmers should also consider seeking additional guarantees from the seller such as a pre-export test to prove effective immunity;
• If you choose to bring animals into Northern Ireland from a disease-free zone via a bluetongue infected zone you must ensure you comply with all the conditions on the export health certificate. This should include the treatment of animals and vehicles with an approved insecticide and ensuring all parts of the health certificate for the imported animals have been met.

Bluetongue affects all ruminants, such as cattle, goats, deer and sheep.

Symptoms may include: fever; swelling of the head and neck; lameness; inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes; drooling; and there is often a high mortality rate.

EHD affects deer most severely, but clinical cases have been reported in cattle at multiple farms in affected European countries.

The post DAERA urges farmers to be vigilant for bluetongue and EHD appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Synergy Rural Collaboration Project brings together IRL and Rural Action Northern Ireland to consider current issues facing rural communities, and to collaborate and devise possible solutions to address the issues identified. 

The launch is part of the initial round of the Shared Island Civic Society Fund that took place earlier this year. It offers a total of €37,385 in funding to this particular project.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin said: “Through the shared island initiative, which I established as Taoiseach, this government is committed to embracing the full potential of the Good Friday Agreement to build a shared, reconciled future on this island.

“The issues faced by rural communities do not stop at the border. We can be far more effective and far more impactful when we work together, to confront shared challenges and take advantage of opportunities.”

Shared Island Project

A survey to community groups and organisations, as well as focus groups will take place as part of the Shared Island Project.

The project will be delivered through a range of activities from consultative approaches, such as meetings, workshops, focus groups and regional rural surveys through to study visits, sharing practice and thematic working groups. 

Chief executive officer (CEO) of IRL, Seamus Boland said: “We recognise there is a significant amount of untapped innovation potential in rural communities. 

“Our aim, through this project, is to tap into that potential and support the development and progression of projects and programmes on a north, south basis.” 

Following the launch, the Irish Rural Link information day will commence from 10:00a.m to 3:00p.m.

This is an annual event where all members of the Oireachtas are invited to drop by to speak with community groups offering services in rural areas.

This includes services from transport to Meals on Wheels, to community education, domestic violence services and supports to migrants, refugees and people seeking international protection.

The post Tánaiste launches new Shared Island Project for rural communities appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Scour is the biggest killer of young calves on farms, so preventative measures and treatment protocols are important to have in place.

This should firstly reduce the number of cases that occur and secondly reduce the recovery time of calves.

Scour

Scour can occur in a number of forms, with nutritional scour occurring due to stress caused by a breakdown in management practices or routine, such as sudden changes to the diet or environment.

But nutritional scour can often progress to infections, which is caused by high population of pathogens in the calves’ environment.

Common types of scour includes rotavirus and coronavirus, which destroy the cells lining the small intestine, resulting in diarrhoea and dehydration.

Any calf that develops scour should be isolated from the other calves immediately.

Infected calves should be isolated in a warm environment and treated for the pathogen causing the scour.

Consult with your vet regarding the pathogen causing the scour in your calves and develop a treatment plan for affected animals.

If calf scour is, or has been, an issue previously, a vaccination programme should be developed, and a future prevention plan created.

Prevention

Calves are born with no immunity, and colostrum is the only way that they can get these maternal antibodies.

When calves are born on farms this autumn, it is important to remember the 1,2,3 rule regarding colostrum:

1. Use the first milk (colostrum) from the cow;
2. Feed the calf colostrum within the first two hours of birth;
3. Calves must be offered at least 3L of good-quality colostrum.

The feeding of high-quality colostrum is particularly important on farms were scour vaccinations are being used.

The calf shed should be treated almost like a clean room, with access to the calf shed being controlled.

Nobody other than people working with the calves should enter the shed.

At the entrance there should a footbath and people working with the calves should be wearing relatively clean clothing.

The feeding equipment in the shed should be cleaned daily and the teats inspected regularly.

Bacteria can build up in the teat and then easily be digested by the calf, resulting in an upset stomach, also known as scour.

Young calves also find it difficult to regulate body temperature. If calves are cold, they will put more energy into staying warm rather than using it to promote growth.

So, to prevent that from happening, sheds need to be bedded well. Calf jackets can also be used if available.

Stocking rates in pens should also be closely monitored as overstocking can lead to an increased level of sickness.

The post Autumn-calving: Dealing with scour in calves appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

As a result of today’s auction, the index increased by 4.3% when compared to the previous event on October 3 to 994.

The GDT Price Index has been on an upward trajectory since the beginning of September, however it still remains at levels last seen in late 2020.

The index dropped to its lowest level in 2023 on August 15 when it slumped to 850.

35,974MT of dairy products were sold during today’s auction, with 117 winning bidders out of 167 participants.

There were 18 rounds of bidding which took almost 2hr and 40 minutes to complete.

The average price today stood at $3,202/MT.

GDT

All of the products offered for sale during the auction saw an increase in average price, butter milk powder (BMP) was not offered at this event.

The average price of anhydrous milk fat jumped by 7.1% to $5,310/MT, this follows a 3.7% increase at the previous auction.

Skim milk powder (SMP) average price rose by 4.3% to $2,659/MT, while there was a similar increase for whole milk powder (WMP) to $3,059/MT.

There was an rise of 2.9% for butter to $4,940/MT, there were marginal gains for cheddar (+0.2%) to $3,858/MT and lactose (+0.2%) to €599/MT.

The post GDT index records fourth consecutive increase appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Stewart McGladdery with an address at Grovehill Road, Ballinaskeagh, Banbridge, Co. Down was convicted of two charges of moving the animals at a sitting of Newry Court yesterday (Monday, October 16).

The 33-year-old pleaded guilty and was fined £500, plus a £15 offender levy.

The case arose following the discovery by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) that McGladdery had moved 42 cattle into his herd in breach of TB restrictions which prohibited the purchase of animals into his herd due to a severe TB breakdown.

Under Article 6 (2) of the Tuberculosis Control Order 1999 a veterinary inspector has the power to serve a notice on the keeper of an affected animal or herd prohibiting the movement of animals into the herd or onto the holding.

McGladdery breached the conditions of this notice by moving animals into his herd whilst under restriction.

“Whilst the majority of herd keepers fully comply with the requirements of the bovine TB eradication scheme, it is vital all infected animals are identified, isolated and removed at the earliest opportunity to minimise risk to other stock in the infected herd and in neighbouring herds.

“Current disease levels continue to remain high, at a considerable cost to the public purse and to individual herd keepers, so it is vital that all stakeholders work together to reduce the disease prevalence,” a DAERA spokesperson said.

TB

Elsewhere, a farmer from Dungannon, Co. Tyrone was recently convicted for failing to present all animals for tuberculosis (TB) testing.

Ian Stanley Boyd (56) of Pomeroy Road, Dungannon, pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him at Dungannon Court yesterday (Monday, October 9).

He was fined £1,500 plus a £15 offender levy.

The case arose following Boyd’s refusal to present his animals for TB testing when requested.

This is in contravention of Article 3(2)(b) of the Tuberculosis (Examination and Testing) Scheme Order (Northern Ireland) 1999, contrary to Article 52(1) of the Diseases of Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1981.

Animal testing of all herds in Northern Ireland for TB is mandatory.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has said that the control of bovine TB is dependent on identifying reactor animals at these tests.

Failure to present animals for tests, it said, undermines efforts by both farmers and the department to reduce the incidence of the disease.

The post Farmer convicted of moving cattle into TB restricted herd appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Wales’ total ban on the use of snares and glue traps comes into force from today (Tuesday, October 17).

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths, announced the ban on September 26 and said that it will prevent “indiscriminate suffering” to animals.

From today, the use of snares and glue traps is illegal in Wales, and anyone found guilty of using a snare could face imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both.

Speaking on the ban coming into force today, Griffiths said: “This is an historic day for animal welfare. We strive for the very highest standards of animal welfare in Wales, and the use of snares and glue traps are incompatible with what we want to achieve. 

“Many animals will now be spared the most terrible suffering as a result of this ban. I’m proud Wales is the first of the UK nations to introduce such a move. 

“The banning of snares and glue traps is not about preventing predator or rodent control. There are other more humane ways to do this,” she said.

Animal welfare

Griffiths thanked all the Welsh government’s partners for working to bring about the ban on snares and glue traps, and said she is looking forward to continuing to ensure that Wales has the “very highest standards of animal welfare”.

Wales rural and wildlife crime coordinator, Rob Taylor, said: “I welcome the introduction of the ban here in Wales today.

“These traps are indiscriminate and over the years I personally, have seen various non-target species, such as badgers and cats caught in snares and suffering terrible injury.

“After today anyone caught using a snare or glue trap in Wales could face a fine or imprisonment, so we advise people to be aware of this new law and act accordingly,” Taylor warned.

Senior public affairs manager at RSPCA Cymru, Billie-Jade Thomas, said: “We very much welcome the ban on snares and glue traps coming into force today.  

“Both have the potential to cause immeasurable suffering to animals. Too often, our officers have dealt with animals in severe pain and misery at the hands of these devices; which are cruel, indiscriminate and totally unnecessary.

“The lives of many animals will be saved including wildlife, pets and farm animals such as sheep and lambs.”

The post Wales: Total ban on snares and glue traps comes into force appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Although the deal is described as a joint venture between Trimble and AGCO, it involves the tractor manufacturer obtaining 85% of Trimble’s portfolio of agricultural assets and technologies.

Joint Venture

The move comes appears to enable Trimble to divest itself of its agricultural interests and concentrate on the construction industry.

However, it is described as a joint venture, suggesting that the technology giant, worth $12.4 billion, is not giving up entirely on the business.

Spending this amount of money represents a firm commitment to digital technology on the part of AGCO which is by far the smaller company in the deal, despite it having a more prominent public presence in the agricultural industry.

One advantage of buying into an existing portfolio of products and services is that the technology can be applied across all makes and brands of machinery, whereas in-house development will tend to limit its use to just that company’s products.

This, according to ACGO, is a main driver behind the acquisition which it believes will “enhance AGCO’s comprehensive technology offering around guidance, autonomy, precision spraying, connected farming, data management and sustainability”.

It goes on to note that AGCO’s Precision Ag portfolio will serve agriculture across the whole crop cycle while supporting over 10,000 equipment models, although it is not clear whether it is just tractors, including legacy models, which are being referred to, or if implements are also included.

AGCO pushes digital sales

All the major tractor manufacturers see digital technology as as a growing part of their sales revenue, as it is an increasingly profitable sector to be involved in.

The approach being taken by AGCO is to consider it as a separate product line which can be sold to existing manufacturers and for retrofitting to older machines, broadening the appeal of digital tech and accelerating its adoption in doing so.

The deal will be financed by Morgan Stanley Inc, and will involve a mixture of new debt, existing liquidity and the generation of an increased cash flow.

The post AGCO spends $2 billion on Trimble acquisition appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Vet Sustain and VetSalus have announced a new veterinary resource for farm vets, which is to be launched at this year’s British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA) Congress.

The BVCA Congress is set to take place this week from Thursday (October 19) until Saturday (October 21) at the Telford International Centre.

Vet Sustain and VetSalus will launch their new farm vet resource at the event – a factsheet outlining key considerations for vets when approaching conversations around sustainable and regenerative farming practices with their farmers.

The organisations said farm vets, as trusted advisors an advocates, are integral to supporting sustainable and regenerative farming practices and that, through their influence, they can offer solutions for farmers.

Veterinary resource

The factsheet will help vets prepare for these conversations with farmers and act as a starting point towards encouraging a more regenerative mindset, the veterinary organisations said.

Managing director of VetSalus, David Black, said: “After receiving feedback from veterinary colleagues, we set out to develop a user-friendly resource for vet professionals to inspire and enable them to have discussions around sustainability in agriculture; we have provided concepts and evidence to help initiate and maintain meaningful dialogue, thus avoiding polarising debate.”

Chair of Vet Sustain, Ed Bailey, said: “Sustainable food and farming is a complex and nuanced subject in which there are many different competing views.

“This can feel overwhelming as a practising vet trying to navigate conversations with farmers, colleagues or friends who look to us for knowledge and advice.

“This resource is a starting point to help engage and understand more about the challenges and solutions.”

The post New farm veterinary resource to be launched at BVCA Congress appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Police Scotland has said it is carrying out enquiries to “establish the full circumstances” of a fire at a farm at Heriot in the Scottish Borders.

The incident occurred around 6:30a.m on Saturday, October 14, and Police Scotland officers attended the scene as well as firefighters from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Officers are appealing for information in connection with the Heriot farm fire, which saw two barns full of hay bales on fire.

Insp Colin Deans said: “Two barns full of hay bales were found to be on fire. Fortunately no people or livestock were injured and we are carrying out enquiries to establish the full circumstances.

“The farm buildings are located at the bottom of a lane that leads from the A7 and we are appealing to anyone who lives in the area or may have been travelling to work and saw anything suspicious to get in touch.

“In addition, if you were driving and have dash-cam footage that could help with our enquiries, then please make contact with officers.”

Anyone with any information on the fire is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0775 of Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Farm fires

The insurance branch of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU Mutual) said 1,700 farm buildings and 66,000 areas of grassland are destroyed by fire in the UK every year.

The most common causes include spontaneous combustion within stored straw or hay, particularly when baled too wet or green, and machinery striking flints and stones and working machinery during harvesting.

About half of all farm fires are started deliberately, the rural insurer said, often as an act of mindless vandalism.

A serious fire can affect the financial stability of even the most well-run business, it said.

Farms are considered to be particularly vulnerable to arson because of their isolated locations, open boundaries and readily ignitable hay an straw stacks making them an easy target.

The post Police Scotland investigating ‘full circumstances’ of Heriot farm fire appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Strutt & Parker has said farmland is remaining “extremely resilient” despite rising interest rates and a squeeze on farm profitability.

The property consultancy’s latest Farmland Database shows the average price of arable land sold so far during 2023 is £10,900.

This is lower than the £11,100/ac reported for HI 2023, but is the same as the 2022 average – which was 15% higher than 2021.

The Strutt & Parker database also revealed that, since 2000, arable farmland has outperformed the commercial and residential property sectors, and equities, delivering an annualised return of 7.8%

The value of arable farmland has risen by 29% over the past 10 years and by 351% over the past 20 years.

Head of estates and farm agency for Strutt & Parker, Matthew Sudlow, said: “Although it appears the growth in values has slowed in some locations, this is only because there have been fewer sales at £12,000/acre or more.

“Our analysis shows that 60% of the arable land traded in England this year has still sold for more than £10,000/acre, compared to 33% in 2021, highlighting the continued strength of the market.”

Demand for farmland

Sudlow said the feeling amongst agents is that demand is more variable for farmland than it was a year ago, but prime farms in popular areas of the country continue to sell well.

Buyers include farmers with rollover money to spend, private individuals, the investment sector and green investors.

“We’re also seeing some significant purchases from a handful of overseas buyers, who like the fact it is easier to buy at scale in the UK than in some other European countries,” he said.

“The UK’s appeal is being enhanced by our farming industry’s enthusiasm for adopting regenerative farming techniques.”

Traditional farmer buyers have accounted for around 40% of transactions so far in 2023. Historically, this figure tends to be 50-60%, Strutt & Parker said.

Supply rose in Q3 of this year, taking the total amount brought to the open market in England during the first nine months of the year to 65,600 acres, which is 9% above the five-year average.

There also continues to be “plenty of activity” on the private market, the consultancy said, but overall supply remains constrained in historical terms.

Positive outlook

Sudlow said the outlook for the coming year remains positive, although greater polarisation in values is a possibility.

“With demand becoming more variable, location is once again becoming an increasingly important factor in determining the price,” he said.

“The expectation is that the market is set to remain buoyant in the perennially popular areas of the country, such as the Cotswolds and counties close to London, and in other parts of the country where there are existing landowners looking to upsize.

“However, farms in traditionally less popular regions focused on productive farming may struggle to achieve the same level of interest as they would have seen last year.”

Levels of supply remain a talking point in the industry, Strutt & Parker said, with questions being asked about whether there could be a noticeable rise in the volume of land available, if farmers decide to sell up in the face of a difficult harvest, high input costs and falling Basic Payment receipts.

“While this is clearly a possibility, there is little hard evidence that it is happening yet,” Sudlow said.

Overall, the sentiment is that farmland remains a solid investment prospect, with a proven track record of capital growth, for a range of buyers, he said.

The post Farmland remains ‘extremely resilient’ despite challenges – Strutt & Parker appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

John Whelan and Eamonn Tracey from the Republic of Ireland ploughing team won their titles at the 68th World Ploughing Contest which was held in the Kuldigas region of Latvia.

Together with their coach, Brian Ireland from Co. Kilkenny, the Irish team competed against competitors from 23 other countries.

Conventional class

Beginning his defence of his world champion title in the conventional class on Friday in the World Ploughing Stubble Contest, Eamonn Tracey earned 213 points at plot 19, leaving him just one point behind Martin Lindberg Veling of Denmark.

Going into the World Grass Contest on Saturday in a strong position, Tracey, in a Valtra tractor at plot 11, finished in first place.

This effort was enough to gain the Garryhill, Co. Carlow man 195.5 points, which saw him achieve 408.5 points overall, and be awarded the Supreme World Conventional Ploughing Champion title.

Reversible class

John Whelan, in his New Holland tractor with a Kverneland plough, finished first in the World Ploughing Stubble Contest on Friday, October 13.

Competing in the reversible class, the Ballygarvan, Co. Wexford man earned a total of 209.5 points for his ploughing in plot 36.

On Saturday, October 14, in the World Grass Contest, Whelan picked up 207.5 points for his efforts in plot 40.

While finishing second in this competition, behind Marco Angst of Switzerland, Whelan achieved enough points overall from both contests, 417 in total, to retain his title as Supreme World Reversible Ploughing Champion.

World Ploughing Contest

Among the 23 other countries competing in the contest was the Northern Ireland team, which saw Adrian Jamison finish 10th in the reversible class, while his teammate Andrew Gill reached third place in the conventional class.

The World Ploughing Contest saw the Irish team surpass the New Zealand team of Ian Woolley and Bob Mehrtens, a welcome change for Irish sports teams last weekend.

Ireland was due to host the contest this year, but as it replaced Russia as the host nation last year, it will next host the contest in 2037.

The post Irish ploughing team retains world champion titles appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Scottish government has announced a new Rural and Islands Housing Action Plan to support its commitment to deliver 110,000 affordable homes by 2032 – with 10% of these in rural and island areas.

The plan brings together public and private sector working with local communities to deliver more homes where they are needed and to “help drive sustainable economic growth”, the government said.

Commitments from the Scottish government include:

• Supporting affordable and community-led housing delivery;
• Bringing more empty homes back into use;
• Providing more homes for key workers;
• Commissioning research on affordable home ownership in rural and island areas;
• Addressing challenges with construction supply chains, skills and capacity.

Minister for Housing Paul McLennan said: “The Rural and Islands Housing Action Plan includes a range of commitments which will be taken forward with public and private sector partners to deliver the right homes in the right places, generate sustainable local economic growth and help rural and island communities to thrive.

“This plan supports Scotland’s long-term housing strategy Housing to 2040 and will help bolster the commitment to deliver 110,000 affordable homes up to 2032, of which 70% will be for social rent and 10% in rural and island areas.

“It has been informed by extensive engagement with a wide range of organisations representing rural and island housing interests.”

Despite the challenges posed by Brexit and high inflation, McLennan said, this plan demonstrates the government’s commitment to “supporting families, communities and businesses“.

As well as this, he said, it demonstrates the Scottish government’s commitment to “unleashing” the full economic potential of Scotland’s rural and island areas through providing more housing.

The post Scottish govt commits to rural housing with Rural and Islands Housing Plan appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

A case in point was Wilson’s Country’s unveiling of the company’s new anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in Co Armagh last week.

The 250kW facility will produce all the green electricity needed by the potato packer and processer from a combination of potato peelings, slurry and grass silage.

Significantly, though, the additional heat produced by the system’s combined heat and power plant will be used to maintain both the digester and digestate tanks within the plant at a temperature of around 50°C.

By taking this approach, additional volumes of gas will be produced from the stored digestate.

In turn, this will help to further convert this material into a bespoke liquid fertiliser for use in growing potato crops. It’s all very ‘high tech’.

Science

Meanwhile students at Grasten Agricultural College in Denmark have access to a robotic milking system that has a range of additional features, all designed to make cow management so much more effective.

These include auto drafting, a hoof-washing facility and the provision of real-time somatic cell count (SCC) data; not the standard milk resistance figures.

Driving all of this is the recognition that our farmers of the future must be able to do two things well – gather efficient data on the real-time performance of their businesses and, thereafter, to interpret what all of this means, from a management perspective.

Denmark is also looking at a number of technical developments within the tillage sector, focused on the use of enhanced satellite imagery of individual fields.

As a consequence, real-time assessments of biomass production levels within crops can be communicated to farmers.

This approach facilitates the compilation of more accurate advisory messages to farmers, again on a real-time basis.

The end result of all this is the more effective use of fertilisers and plant chemicals.

Rowers can avail of this service on the back of an agreed annual fee.

It’s an approach to crop production that makes available the very latest Global Position Satellite (GPS) satellite technologies to farmers at a realistic cost.

So yes, the appliance of science is very much the future where the development of production agriculture is concerned.

But it’s one thing to amass large quantities of data; the real challenge is that of making this information available to farmers in easy-to-understand ways that can allow them to make quick and effective decisions, where the management of their businesses is concerned.

The post Opinion: Agriculture is fast becoming a very exact science appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Foyle suppliers from across Ulster were in attendance at the event which featured talks from Andrew Clarke, Foyle Food Group, Gareth Anderson, FarmGate Nutrition and Jennifer Howse, who spoke on the importance of mental health in farmers.

The event featured a tour of the farm where areas of research were highlighted and the most recent developments were on show.

Research is ongoing on the farm examining methods of improving efficiency, reducing input costs, and improving animal welfare whilst also reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Andrew Clarke said: “Foyle supports knowledge transfer partnerships with our suppliers and these events encourage positive discussions about future beef farming practices.”

Brushes and Bokashi

Cattle brushes have been found to be a key driver of performance on the Foyle farm. Findings have shown 0.2kg/head/day live weight gain in trials conducted on Aberdeen Angus cattle.

Similar trials are planned to go ahead later in the year to potentially assess the cause of this increased performance.

‘Bokashi’, was also a topic of interest at the farm walk. This involves adding a microorganism mixture into bedding and ensiling it for eight weeks once it is mucked out, creating an anaerobic environment.

This manure management strategy is used on the farm to break down organic matter, making it more suitable for land application.

Energy and carbon are retained in the bokashi end product, stimulating soil microbiology, improving soil fertility and preventing carbon loss as CO2.

Infrastructure

Farmers were taken to Foyle’s newly-built cattle shed, the design of which demonstrates a high level of animal welfare.

Maximum levels of natural light are captured to facilitate the evaporation of moisture from the soft-bedded lye-back area, reducing bedding costs.

Other features include polycarbonate roof sheeting, mono-pitch design, open sides and an automatic climate control curtain.

Collectively these contribute to maintaining a consistent environment for cattle, minimising the incidence of respiratory disease and reducing energy costs.

An automatic slurry aeration system within the tank maintains slurry in a semi-liquid state for use when required.

This removes the need for mixing slurry benefitting staff safety and minimises disturbance to cattle.

Staff safety is a major area of focus in the new handling facilities at the farm which were completed in 2022.

There are exit points in every pen, eliminating the need for staff to go inside the pen with cattle at any point.

Also, the layout meets the company’s commitments to improving animal welfare. There are anti-jump rails, anti-backing bars, a double race which merges into single file, auto drafting technology and grooved concrete flooring.

Additionally, the ‘budbox design’ obeys natural behavioural principles, encouraging animals to go back to where they came from and go around the handler.

Feed Bunks

The farm has adopted a feed-bunk management system which it says is useful in their aim of feeding cattle to peak intake and meeting the focus of maximising feed efficiency.

Andrew Clarke explained that “This theory has originated from research conducted by the South Dakota University. They have found that finishing beef cattle should be fed to 99% of their maximum dry matter intake to ensure optimal performance.

“Also, the quantity of feed provided to cattle must match the amount the animals can consume without causing digestive upsets.

“Following feeding, bunkers are assessed based on the residual feed remaining. A score of 0-0.5 is ideal, or as little feed remaining as possible.”

Feeding regimes at the Foyle farm are kept consistent daily, with each feed being provided at the same time in the morning and evening.

Feed is also pushed up in the early afternoon to drive intakes and increase cattle performance.

Genetics programme

Andrew Clarke, lead farm liaison at Foyle Food Group, addressed the audience on current work the company is undertaking in its Superior Genetics Programme in collaboration with Aberdeen Angus Quality Beef.

The programme encourages suppliers to use bulls of high genetic merit as the benefits have been demonstrated with Foyle’s own bull, ‘Elliot Bravo’.

Trials with this sire have found reductions in finishing age by 40 days. Using top sires for traits such as 200 or 400-day weights has the potential to improve progeny weight by approximately 18.5kg without considering any other management tools.

Nutrition

Gareth Anderson from FarmGate nutrition spoke to the audience on the total mixed ration used on the finishing farm.

The guidelines he discussed for finishing diets included:

• A target dry matter intake (DMI) of 2% body weight;
• High energy dense diets of around 12MJ/kg DM, starch;
• Sugar inclusion of >20%;
• Crude protein between 12-14%;
• Fibre content of >25%.

Gareth emphasised the principle of higher dry matter intake correlating with higher liveweight gain.

Aspects of good practice were highlighted, such as good pit-face management, regular forage analysis, consistent mixing and access to clean water.

Gareth explained several different sources of starch and sugars, protein, fibre as well as alternative feed additives including Elensis.

He said this product improves daily liveweight gain and has methane-reducing properties, as trialled on the Foyle farm.

He finished with talking through examples of beef blends which are appropriate for the autumn period.

Mental Health

Jennifer Howse, a PhD student from the Royal Agricultural University and previous agricultural liaison at Foyle Food Group addressed the importance of mental health in the red meat sector.

This message included advice on how farmers can think about positive ways to approach the challenges they face within farming and managing their business.

She emphasised the importance of aiming to tackle the initial struggles or signs of mental ill-health before they begin to build up.

Jennifer also discussed the isolation farmers can often feel and encouraged the audience to talk and reach out if they are struggling.

She offered ‘5-a-day checklist’ for farmers and those in the farming community:

• 1: Be honest with yourself and those around you;
• 2: Talk openly about daily challenges and listen;
• 3: Care for yourself as well as you care for others;
• 4: Contact that person you’ve been saying you should;
• 5: Plan for the unexpected – make the right choices.

Donations were received following the talks for Rural Support, a local listening and signpost service for farmers and farming families across Northern Ireland.

The event closed with a barbeque and steaks were provided by Foyle Food Group.

The post Foyle cattle finishing unit and research farm hosts open day appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is set to launch a new strategic dairy farm at the end of the month.

Dillington Farms near Ilminster, Somerset, will become one of the board’s strategic dairy farms on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

The event will take place from 10:45a.m until 2:15p.m at the mixed farming business’s 870ha site.

The launch event will include:

• A tour of the farm with an opportunity to find out more about operations, performance figures and goals for the farm over the next three years;
• Insight on how the estate has incorporated mid-tier crops, grown on arable headlands, into the dairy and dry stock ration to achieve 3,700L of milk from forage;
• A discussion on how the team use growth and performance data to select replacements, with an age of first calving of 23 months;
• An exploration of how a three-way cross has led to high fertility and health cows while producing yields in excess of 10,800L/cow per year.

Dillington Farms

The in-hand farming enterprises of the Dillington estate are run by Ollie Blackburn with the help of Lou Thorner, the herd manager.

The herd based at Knott Oak Dairy currently comprises a dairy herd of around 350 cross-bred cows yielding approximately 10,800L/cow/year.

Around 130 replacement heifers are reared each year, with the remaining progeny being reared for beef in a separate enterprise.

The herd calves all year round and is fully housed – except for dry cows and second season heifers, which graze for five to six months of the year.

A purpose-built portal frame building accommodates all milking with its six robotic milkers and space for calving cows. Dry cows are housed in a separate cubicle shed when not grazing.

Calves are reared in group pens on automatic feeders before being moved to weaned pens and eventually into cubicles.

Grazing is provided from permanent pasture and parkland with a range of forages, including herbal leys and maize, being ensiled.

This farm focuses on home-grown feeds and is involved in an extensive mid-tier scheme, as well as renewable energy.

Strategic farms

AHDB’s strategic farms follow either an all-year-round or block calving system so participant farms can have real-world demonstrations and get ideas to make improvements on their farms.

“The farms are solid performers who openly and honestly share their experiences and performance figures at on-farm and virtual meetings,” AHDB said.

“You’ll hear about a range of topics from mastitis and managing calves to breeding and buildings.”

The Strategic Dairy Farm programme is funded by AHDB and the Betty Lawes Foundation.

AHDB is currently seeking more strategic farms. More information on becoming one can be found on the AHDB website.

The post AHDB to launch a new strategic dairy farm at the end of the month appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

ERF and Atkinson trucks will celebrate their 90th anniversary this year, with the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show planning an official celebration for the vehicles at the event.

The show will take place on November 4 and 5, 2023, and organisers said it will feature a celebration of the “historic vehicles”.

ERF was a British truck manufacturer, established in 1933 by Edwin Richard Foden, and was purchased by MAN SE, known for its commercial vehicles and trucks, but ceased production in 2008.

On display at the National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club (NVETC) North Midlands’ stand at the event will be a 1962 12t ERF truck, owned by Alan Hitchcock.

“The vehicle was first registered in July 1962, and the present owner bought it in 2022,” explains NVETC North Midlands representative, Derek Turton.

“It will be on display at our stand, and on the back will be a vintage tractor, so it will be quite the display. It will be the first time we’ve had a stand at the show, we’re all excited, particularly with the 90 years of ERF theme.”

Another modern truck to be displayed is a 1997 ERF EC Olympic Gold, owned by Rich Eldred.

“My dad used to have one when I was a kid and I always wanted one. Three years ago I finally bought one, off a friend who was retiring it from work,” Eldred said.

“It was fulfilling a childhood dream for me. It’s quite a rare truck, too, as it’s a Gold spec Olympic, which means it’s top spec; every box was ticked, which even in 1997 meant it had air conditioning.”

ERF and Atkinson

Richard Dale will be bringing both an ERF truck and an Atkinson truck to the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show.

Atkinson was founded in 1970 and ceased production in 2009. Dale’s Atkinson truck to be exhibited at the show is from 1993.

“It was first owned by BP Petroleum, it was then purchased by someone who had a fuel business himself – Stone’s Fuels – so he could deliver to the fisheries around the East coast,” Dale said.

When the fuel business went under new ownership, the truck was painted red.

“Then he bought the business back, and the truck remained in his garage for 26 years,” Dale said.

“In May, I had the chance to purchase the truck, so we have put it back to his colours, with his name on it – as a tribute to him and Stone’s Fuels – we’re going to surprise him.”

The truck is quite rare, according to Dale, who said he hasn’t seen one for many years.

Dale’s ERF truck was originally owned by Flo Gas, but was sold to a local farmer.

“He ran it for a number of years on the farm, still in the Flo Gas colours – it had been stood in the yard for two years, when he asked if we could come and paint the front bumper,” Dale said.

“So we asked what his plans were for it, and he said he was going to sell it – so we bought it and repainted it into our colours – Seven Acre Commercials.

“And we use it to bring vehicles to shows. The truck gets shown too, as well as whatever is on the back of it.”

The post ERF and Atkinson trucks to celebrate 90th anniversary at Newark vintage show appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

As a direct consequence, the commitment made by the country to agricultural education is significant.

Educational achievement has many ramifications throughout the agri economy of Denmark.

One of these is the requirement of Danish banks to only lend money to young farmers with a recognised agricultural qualification.

This entails the completion of an accredited college course, one that delivers at both an academic and skills level.

Education and training in Denmark

Agricultural students are also expected to spend time on a selection of Denmark’s top  commercial farms.

If they do not achieve this level of experience, they will not secure the final qualifications and accreditation that they need.

Grasten Agricultural College, located in eastern Denmark, provides a range of courses to students from 16 to 20 years-of-age. The campus boasts both excellent facilities and 100 years’ of delivering agricultural courses to the highest standards.

The college will celebrate its centenary in 2024. It is home to 240 students and Agriland got to pay a visit to the operation along with the Irish Farm Buildings Association.

Agricultural education is free in Denmark. However, students boarding at Grasten make a contribution to the costs incurred in this regard.

Key to the evolution of Grasten has been the commitment of its staff to deliver courses that reflect the needs of Danish agriculture in an evolving manner.

Today the principle of delivering future sustainability on individual farms is the overarching principle being addressed.

This subject is approached both in terms of food security and the carbon footprint of agriculture.

So e.g., these issues are clearly reflected in the commitment to make the Grasten campus totally energy self-sufficient by 2025.

And major steps along this road have already been taken. The placement of solar panels on many of the college roofs and, the recent installation of a biogas plant means that the college can produce all of the electricity required from its own resources.

The feed stock for the biogas plant is the slurry generated by the college’s pig and dairy units.

Grasten

Grasten is home to a herd of 250 dairy cows and 350 breeding sows. Apart from the slurry, no other feed stock is required for the AD operation.

A combined heat and power plant is included within the specification of the plant.

This represents a valuable source of electricity. Waste heat is pumped back into the college buildings.

The digestate is stored in a nearby above-ground store, from where it will be spread on adjacent arable land.

Plans are in place to have the college secure a net ‘carbon zero’ position, where energy is concerned, with the next 24 months.

The big imponderable here is the fuel that will be required to drive the college’s tractor fleet. One option will be to use the biogas generated by the AD plant. Another alternative will be to invest in new, electrically driven tractors.

The dairy unit at Grasten features a Lely A5 robotic milking system with an accompanying Vector Feeding System.

Almost half the dairy cows in Denmark are now milked robotically. The system at the college comes with a number of tweaks that have been specified to help the learning and dairy management processes at the college.

One is the inclusion of bespoke somatic cell count (SCC) software; the other is the availability of an automated feet washing system, to help reduce lameness levels within the Grasten herd.

The students are also taught to use traditional milking systems, which necessitates the manual placement of clusters on cows’ udders.

Feeding systems

The decision to opt for the Vector Feeding System was taken for two reasons – one relates to the teaching of new technologies, the other relates to the savings it generates, relating to the overall management of the college herd.

Prior to the installation on the system, it took one man three hours each day to feed all the cattle within the dairy unit.

Feeding in this way also required 40L of diesel plus the wear and tear on machinery on a daily basis.

Now the ‘Lely kitchen’, an integral part of the feeding system, is stocked up with the required maize and grass silages on alternate days.

According to Lely, there are 15 Vector systems operating in Ireland at the present time.

They comprise a mixing and feeding robot that is both 100% electric and self-contained.

The system uses technology to create a highly mixed ration, which it then transports independently to the identified feed passages.

The Vector also senses when it is time for a new feeding round. The mixing and feeding robot measures the feed height of a specific section to determine when the ration needs to be supplemented, so there is never too much or too little feed available to the cows.

The cows at Grasten are producing 11,000L of milk per lactation. They receive a ration that delivers 23kg of dry matter (DM)/cow/day. Approximately 40% of the feed is made up of concentrates.

Students are expected to have a firm grasp of the information coming from the dairy robots and the other modern technologies operating at Grasten.

Automation

The use of automation is seen as a key means by which improved sustainability can be delivered across Danish agriculture as a whole.

Learning to use and manage farm machinery well is a key driver for many of the courses offered at the college. Students are taught the basic operating principles of each machine.

They also get ample opportunity to use the machines in the field on the college’s 240ha farm.

Agriculture and food combined, account for 24% of all Danish exports. Germany, Sweden, the UK and China are the main markets with pork, fish and dairy the main product categories leaving the country.

Approximately 60% of the available land area in Denmark is cultivated (2.8 million ha). The average farm size is 77ha. This figure is projected to increase significantly as older farmers continue to retire.

Most Danish farmers grow cereal crops – barley and wheat – 75% of which is destined for animal diets.

Land prices in Denmark are currently in the range €12,500-50,000/ha.

The post Education and training key drivers of agriculture in Denmark appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Ceva Animal Health has released a step-by-step guide and mobility improvement training videos on best practice in dairy cattle lameness management.

The guide and videos are designed for the ‘Fab Five’ foot treatment team – farmers, vets, foot trimmers, mobility scorers and nutritional consultants – to emphasis the importance of working together to improve herd mobility.

Ceva said the step-by-step guide highlights the importance of implementing a robust and ongoing treatment plan to improve cow comfort and reduce lameness in the short-term, with the aim of increased production and herd welfare in the longer-term.

The steps feature:

• Advice on reviewing whole herd mobility by an independent RoMS (Register of Mobility Scorers) accredited mobility scorer;
• Seeking veterinary advice or contacting a mobility mentor (someone who has been trained to deliver the ADHB Healthy Feet Programme) if lesions are identified;
• Treating affected cows within 48 hours of identification using a combination of trim, block, topical antimicrobial spray and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), as appropriate;
• The importance of ongoing treatment, prevention and monitoring every fortnight.

The guide also includes tips for the successful use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), which include the importance of using a NSAID with a zero milk withhold.

The lameness management videos are produced in collaboration with James Wilson, a foot health consultant from Herd Health Consultancy.

The videos feature contributions from professional foot trimmer and chair of the National Association of Cattle Foot Trimmers (NACFT), Alex Burrows; dairy farmer from Gleadthorpe Farm in Nottinghamshire, Dave Bacon; assistant herdsperson at Gleadthorpe Farm, Shannon Trinder; and veterinary surgeon and ruminant technical advisor at Ceva Animal Health, Harry Walby.

They cover the benefits of regular mobility scoring, prioritising lameness prevention in heifers and maintaining successes with practical and effective lameness treatment and prevention programmes across the whole herd.

Cattle mobility

Wilson, of Herd Health Consultancy, said he was delighted to be involved in the new dairy cattle mobility videos and guide as they provide “extesive advice” of lameness treatment.

As well as this, Wilson said the videos provide advice on prevention programmes and the importance of “rigorous mobility scoring”.

“Using this guide to help you prioritise mobility in heifers, particularly in regard to NSAID usage, will help to deliver measurable positive change to herd mobility,” he said.

Walby, of Ceva Animal Health, said: “Our new cattle lameness step-by-step guide and lameness management training videos provide invaluable advice to promote best practice and the planning and implementation of an effective and easy to follow herd mobility improvement programme which will help increase production and herd welfare.”

The post Ceva releases guide and training videos for dairy cattle lameness management appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Agriland paid a visit to Corrie’s farm, Drumhilla Farm in Co. Down, ahead of the its special sale of 85 in-calf heifers which is set to take place at Ballymena Livestock Mart on Tuesday, October 17, at 7:00p.m.

As well as supplying heifers to farmers across Northern Ireland and further afield, Corrie is also involved in a syndicate known as J.C.B Commercials which is well known for sourcing top-end commercial cattle genetics.

“All heifers in the sale are in calf to a Limousin bull,” he said.

“The majority of the heifers in the sale are scanned in-calf to Ampertaine Lance and are due to calve in the first week of January.

“The remaining heifers are scanned in-calf to a range of stockbulls including bulls sired by Lance, Majestic, and Lodge Hamlet.”

This is the seventh year of the sale and Corrie said that his main focus for the heifers on offer in each sale is “to supply customers with high-end suckler cow replacements”.

“What I look for is heifers with good plates, a good top-loin, good bone and a bit of power about them,” he said.

“The sale has proven itself in offering cows fit to produce top-end weanlings.

“At last year’s sale, two heifers were bought by Strangford farmer William Kelly which went on to produce calves that were the two top-two priced calves in Saintfield suck calf sales this year selling for £3,000 and £1,740/head.

“It’s great to see our heifers are doing the business for repeat costumers.”

The Corrie Leading Ladies sale will kick off at 7:00p.m and the catalogue is available to view on the MartEye app.

“All cattle will be eligible for export in the sale and all heifers have been tested BVD (bovine viral diarrhoea) negative. These heifers are due to calve from January 5, onwards, and have been naturally run. They have not been pushed on concentrate feeding,” Corrie added.

“If you are a new customer of Ballymena Livestock Market, please make sure you pre-register with the venue ahead of the Leading Ladies Sale.”

The post 85 springing heifers set for Ballymena ‘Leading Ladies’ sale appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Adama Agricultural Solutions UK Ltd. has appointed Michael Farr as the company’s regional agronomy manager in the South West of England.

In his role as regional agronomy manager for Adama, Farr will provide technical support and advice to growers, agronomists and trade partners in the South West of England.

Commenting on Farr’s appointment, Adama’s go-to-market director, Stephen Beal, said:

“I’m delighted to welcome Michael to Adama’s UK team where he’ll play an important role in promoting a better understanding of our extensive range of fungicides, herbicides, plant growth regulators, molluscicides and insecticides.

“Over the next few years Adama will be launching a pipeline of new crop protection products and I look forward to working closely with Michael and Adama’s wider agronomy support team to launch these products and provide key technical advice to customers, distributors, agronomists and growers throughout the UK.”

Michael Farr

Farr, who is FACTS and BASIS qualified, joins Adama having spent a brief period of time with FMC where he was an account manager in the UK and Ireland.

Prior to this, Farr’s agricultural career began when he joined United Oilseeds as a trainee area manager and seed sales administrator.

Here, he worked with growers to provide advice on crop marketing, seed purchases and variety selection, and offering technical agronomic advice.

He was also responsible for overseeing the company’s companion cropping trials.

Farr then spent nine years working for DSV, initially as an area sales manager in the south of the UK, selling a range of crop seeds including oilseed rape, maize, grass and clover, cover crops and cereals.

He then went on to become DSV’s forage manager and provided technical support for the company’s arable crop portfolio, and represented DSV at the BSPB crop group and was selected to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) committee for oilseeds.

The post Adama appoints regional agronomy manager for the South West appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Alongside the show itself, the DLG presents various awards, the most coveted of which is a gold medal for innovation, followed by a silver medal for those that don’t quite make the top mark.

However, it should be noted that it is not a competition as such, the DLG can award as many medals, or none at all, as it sees fit.

New Holland scoops gold

This year there was just one gold medal awarded and that went to New Holland and its Concept CR Combine harvester which addressed the issue of the limited space within combines to fit the threshing mechanism.

It is New Holland that developed the twin axial rotor type harvester and although engine power and table width are capable of dealing with higher throughputs, it is the threshing drums that constrain performance, as they have reached the maximum physical size that is possible while keeping the harvester within road legal limits.

To increase the volume available for fitting larger rotors, and to keep the overall weight down, New Holland has repositioned the engine and rearranged the drives to allow the threshing mechanism to occupy the full width of the body.

The engine now sits longitudinally and is in line with the rotors while chains and shafts, rather than belts, are used to transmit power to the threshing mechanism.

By keeping the driveshaft above the level of the rotors and away from the wheels, New Holland claims to have increased chassis size considerably with little weight penalty.

Silver medals

2023 saw 17 silver medals being awarded to companies that had also contributed to the incremental advancement of agricultural mechanisation.

Not all of the other items recognised with a silver medal are applicable to Irish farming operations, and some may not even make it to production, yet there are a handful that could well become commonplace here.

All the recipients have great merit but it might be wondered why the Steyr Hybrid tractor, from the same CNH stable as the New Holland combine, did not find itself being awarded a gold medal as well; the company is streets ahead of its competitors in exploring this technology.

Steyr Hybrid CVT

Back at the last Agritechnica event in 2019, Steyr presented a forward looking concept tractor in which a diesel engine drove a generator which then powered four separate drive wheel motors, and another unit for the PTO.

The company has now refined this concept and has a working prototype which it defines as a hybrid CVT, focusing on the fact that the torque characteristics of electrical motors allow them to be used without complex gearboxes to provide a full speed range.

In the working version of the tractor there are just two motors which are sited in a completely redesigned front end.

These drive both the front and rear wheels by mechanical linkage and a simple two-speed gearbox, suggesting that Steyr found independent drive to each wheel either impractical or expensive.

Slotted into the electrical part of the drive train are what the company describes as super capacitors rather than straight batteries.

The inclusion of these allows a degree of regenerative braking and boosting of power above that of the engine output.

Fendt variable conditioning

One of the effects of digital technology is that machinery companies are tending to involve themselves more in crop management itself, instead of just providing the tools of production.

Fendt has taken a further step into this already blurred boundary with the development of variable conditioning on mowers.

The company explains that stock will perform best if there are no great variations in the feed quality.

It then goes on to argue that achieving a homogenous silage quality starts with the cutting of the crop and the amount of conditioning it receives across the field.

Fendt has produced a system that alters the aggression of a mowers conditioned as it moves across the field.

This is regulated either by satellite data or yield monitoring and the aim is to reduce the effect in thinner parts and increase it where the crop is thicker. Saving fuel would be another benefit.

In theory it sounds an excellent idea and will probably have some use in lighter crops, or even the exceptional conditions of this year’s silage season, but the thick wet crops found in Ireland demand that as much water is lost out of a crop as possible, irrespective of the consistency of drying.

Telescopic front-end loader

Tractor front-end loaders have a particular drawback and that is forward reach can be insufficient at times; stacking round bales is the obvious situation where a little extra would often be handy, and Stoll has developed a loader which can provide just that.

There are two elements within the new design which contribute to providing a further 1m forward reach, and an increased height of 1.5m.

The first is the extendable arm which can move by 0.7m and what is described as an ‘extensible joint’ which appears to refer to the mounting point on the tractor being able to shift its position.

There is a distinct preference for tractor mounted front-end loaders over more specialist machines in Ireland, and Stoll has targeted medium-sized tractors with this new loader.

Its adoption would appear a safe bet.

Power link for parallel ploughs

As great an invention as Harry Ferguson’s three-point linkage was, it suffered one great flaw and that is as the plough rose from work to reduce the draught requirement, it was no longer parallel to the ground.

Claas has at last got round to fixing this problem with its Three Point Powerlift Regulation system by integrating the hydraulic upper link into its three-point control system.

Height measurement sensors, which are mounted at the front and rear of the implement to determine its position, transfer their data to the tractor’s control electronics which then extends or shortens the top link to ensure the implement is working at an equal depth along its length.

The post DLG awards gold medal to New Holland combine appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, and the Pirbright Institute (an animal disease research Centre in Surry) were able to restrict – though not completely block – the virus from infecting chickens by altering a small section of their DNA.

The birds showed no signs that the change in their DNA had any impact on their health or well-being.

The University of Edinburgh said that the findings – published this week – are “an encouraging step forward”. However, the researchers emphasised that further gene edits would be needed to produce a chicken population which cannot be infected by bird flu.

The scientists bred the chickens using gene-editing techniques to alter the section of DNA responsible for producing the protein ANP32A. During an infection, flu viruses use this protein molecule to replicate.

When the gene-edited chickens were exposed to a normal dose of the H9N2-UDL strain of avian influenza, nine out of 10 birds remained uninfected and there was no spread to other chickens.

The research team then exposed the gene-edited birds to an artificially high dose of the virus. When exposed to the higher dose, five out of 10 birds became infected.

However, even in those gene-infected birds that were infected, the amount of virus found in them was lower than the level typically seen during infection in non-gene-edited chickens.

The gene edit also helped to limit further spread of the virus to just one of four non-gene-edited chickens placed in the same incubator, while there was no transmission to other gene-edited chickens.

The virus was able to receive some level of penetration in the infected birds because it found two other proteins to assist in its replication.

For that reason, the ANP32A gene edit, on its own, does not offer enough protection for use in the production of chickens, according to the research team.

The team also carried out tests on lab-grown chicken cells to edit additional sections of DNA that produced ANP32A as well as the other two proteins the virus was using.

When this was done, growth of the virus in laboratory cell cultures was successfully blocked in cells with the three gene edits.

The next step, according to researchers, will be to try to develop chickens with edits to all three genes.

Commenting on the research, the study’s principal investigator, Prof. Mike McGrew from the University of Edinburgh, said: “Bird flu is a great threat to bird populations. Vaccination against the virus poses a number of challenges, with significant practical and cost issues associated with vaccine deployment.

“Gene-editing offers a promising route towards permanent disease resistance, which could be passed down through generations, protecting poultry and reducing the risks to humans and wild birds.

“Our work shows that stopping the spread of avian influenza in chickens will need several simultaneous genetic changes,” Prof. McGrew added.

Prof. Wendy Barclay, from Imperial College London, commented: “Although we haven’t yet got the perfect combination of gene edits to take this approach into the field, the results have told us a lot about how influenza virus functions inside the infected cell and how to slow its replication.”

The post Bird flu: Research shows ‘partial protection’ in gene-edited chickens appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has shortlisted three veterinary professionals for the 2023 BVA Young Vet of the Year Award.

Early career vets Rebecca Hampson, Henry Lamb and Camilla Church are all competing for the Zoetis-sponsored award, which celebrates vets in the first stages of their professional career making a significant impact.

The winner of the BVA Young Vet of the Year Award for 2023 will be announced on November 16, 2023, at the association’s Gala Dinner which takes place during London Vet Show.

They will receive a prize package which includes £1,000, a year’s free BVA membership, a mentoring/engagement opportunity with sponsor Zoetis and career development opportunities.

The award’s judging panel includes:

• BVA president, Anna Judson;
• Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) president, Sue Paterson;
• National veterinary lead ruminant and equine at Zoetis UK, Ally Ward;
• Last year’s award winner Hannah Hunt.

Finalists are selected based on their work which includes supporting clients and colleagues; providing outstanding and consistent care for patients; inspiring others and giving back to their community; championing causes in the profession; and going above and beyond the normal call of duty.

On behalf of the judges, BVA president Anna Judson said: “BVA’s Young Vet of the Year showcases exceptional vets from across the UK making an invaluable contribution to the profession.

“This year we have been blown away by all the incredible nominations, but these three young vets really stood out for their contribution to their fields and their commitment to their unique causes and passions.

“Congratulations to all of the finalists, you are a credit to the veterinary profession and we know you have bright futures ahead of you.”

Finalists

Rebecca Hampson

Hampson was nominated for her work co-founding Veterinary Education Malawi.

The animal welfare charity provides free veterinary services to low-income communities, as well as practical tuition and educational support to the first and only vet school in Malawi – the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), and to para-vets who currently provide the majority of veterinary care in country.

Hampson graduated from the University of Bristol in 2015 and after two years in small animal practice completed an MSc in international animal welfare, ethics and law.

This enabled her to volunteer in Malawi – a trip that would inspire her to set up Veterinary Education Malawi.

Hampson, who now splits her time between West Sussex and Malawi, secured funding to develop a clinical skills lab at LUANAR.

She has also implemented an annual equine teaching week for third and fourth year vet students. She has treated more than 700 dogs and donkeys in Malawi since 2021.

On being shortlisted for the 2023 BVA Young Vet of the Year Award, Hampson said: “I am so excited to have been shortlisted, it has been an incredibly busy but rewarding few years so this is a really welcome surprise.

“I really hope it will help to raise awareness of our mission in Malawi and encourage other vets to consider using their degree and skills to volunteer abroad.”

Henry Lamb

Commercial poultry and gamebird veterinarian Henry Lamb was nominated for the award for his work tackling outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) and encouraging other young vets to take up roles in the poultry industry. 

After graduating from the Royal Veterinary College in 2018, Lamb began working at Crowshall Veterinary Services, Norfolk.

This has seen him working through the recent bird flu outbreaks, holding multiple Official Veterinarian/OV panels, and preparing for export changes associated with Brexit.

Lamb is also a European College of Poultry Veterinary Science resident, mental health first aider and trustee of regional rural mental health charity You Are Not Alone (YANA), co-lead of his practice green group and deputy rotation lead for the new RVC poultry rotation, which takes its first students in 2024.

In his role as external lecturer for the RVC, Henry provides opportunities to engage with avian population medicine for new members of the profession.

“I feel incredibly honoured to have been nominated, let alone be shortlisted as a finalist, especially knowing the outstanding level of commitment and skill so many different members of the profession bring across clinical practice, research sectors, and beyond,” Lamb said.

“I hope to live up to the finalist title and deliver the best possible support to our agricultural communities, alongside my incredibly dedicated colleagues and peers.”

Camilla Church

Equine vet Camilla Church was nominated for her dedication to promoting the veterinary profession, equine welfare, and for her work setting up the ambulatory equine practice, Perth Equine Vets.

Church, who lives in Perthshire, is a graduate of Glasgow Vet School and worked mainly with horses in a mixed and small animal/equine practices before setting up her own practice in 2020.

Perth Equine Vets is now a team of three vets and three part-time admin staff.

Church organises frequent events, most recently a ‘get into vet school’ day for upcoming vet students.

She also regularly creates blogs and videos on the practice social media accounts which helps horse owners learn essential skills, as well as attending regular equine weight management clinics with her team.

On being shortlisted for the BVA Young Vet of the Year Award, Church said: “It was an absolute honour to be nominated, but I am completely astounded and humbled to make the final three. 

“Congratulations to everyone, and I look forward to meeting the other two finalists at the BVA Gala Dinner. 

“I hope to continue to champion the veterinary profession in any way I can – and to continue to grow a practice which has its staff, owners and horses at its centre.”

The post BVA shortlists 3 vets for 2023 Young Vet of the Year Award appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Aldi has been given the title of the UK’s most popular supermarket chain, after 84% of those surveyed by YouGov had a positive opinion of the retailer.

The retailer placed first in YouGov’s Q3 popularity rankings of UK supermarkets. The market research company uses millions of responses to continually monitor what the UK thinks about different brands, people and products.

Aldi was followed by Marks & Spencer Food (82%) in second place, Lidl (78%) in third place, Sainsbury’s (73%) in fourth place and Tesco and Tesco Express (72%) in fifth place.

Communications director at Aldi, Richard Thornton, said: “Low prices never go out of fashion which is why Aldi is – and will continue to be – loved by so many.

“Our unbeatable combination of high-quality products at low prices has helped us attract around a million new customers in the past year alone, but we’re not stopping there.

“We’re investing £1.4 billion over the next two years to help bring us closer to even more households.”

Aldi held the top spot overall for adults according to the YouGov survey but, within the Generation X and boomer survey groups, it was knocked off the top by Marks & Spencer Food.

Differences in men and women

Aldi was also number one in the overall male category, with 82% popularity.

It was followed by Lidl (77%), Marks & Spencer Food (73%), Tesco Express and Morrisons (both 71%).

In the overall female category, Marks & Spencer Food claimed the top spot, with 91% popularity.

It was followed by Aldi (86%), Sainsbury’s (81%), Lidl (79%) and Iceland (77%).

The post YouGov survey reveals Aldi as the UK’s most popular supermarket appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The loss is averaged to be worth 5% of annual global agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) equivalent to $123 billion per year.

FAO released a report titled ‘The impact of disasters on agriculture and food security ‘ which has revealed an estimation for the effect of disasters on agriculture production.

It highlights the need for improving data on the impact of disasters on all subsectors of agriculture to create data systems that can serve as the base, where effective action can be constructed.

The report also indicates that losses related to major agricultural products are showing an increasing trend.

Loss of crops and livestock – FAO

The FAO report revealed the disasters on lower middle income countries affected 15% of their total GDP, inflicting the highest relative losses on them.

The disasters also affected small Island Developing States (SIDS), losing almost 7% of their GDP.

The loss of cereals in the last three decades, amounted to an average of 69 million tonnes per year. According to the report that loss is corresponding to the entire cereal production of France in 2021.

Fruits and vegetables and sugar crops underwent a near average loss of 40 million tonnes per year.

There was an average estimated loss of 16 million tonnes per year for meats, dairy products and eggs, which corresponded to the whole production of meats, dairy products and eggs in Mexico and India in 2021.

Director-General QU Dongyu of FAO stated: “Agriculture is one of the most highly exposed and vulnerable sectors in the context of disaster risk, given its profound dependence on natural resources and climate conditions.

“Recurrent disasters have the potential to erode gains in food security and undermine the sustainability of agri-food systems.”

He added that the publication, showcases a chance to address risks to the agricultural food systems.

It added that losses were higher in high-income countries, lower-middle-income countries and upper-middle-income countries, but low-income countries, and especially SIDS, suffered the highest incidence of losses in agricultural added value.

The most vulnerable farmers in the agri-food systems are smallholding farmers.

The post FAO: Loss of crops and livestock in last 30 years worth $3.8 trillion appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The National Pig Association (NPA) has today (Friday, October 13) called for the UK government to implement a number of steps to prevent and prepare for an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF).

The trade association for UK pig farmers said the sector is concerned by the “constant delays in implementing proper border checks” on EU meat imports.

The NPA also said it is concerned at a lack of preparedness in the event that ASF does reach the UK pig herd.

In a briefing to MPs, the NPA said it has called for:

• No further delays on checks for goods entering the UK from the EU;
• Improved and increased border controls for meat imports (sniffer dogs etc. at ports/airports/Eurotunnel and postal hubs);
• Better communications, including messaging at points of entry, to emphasise the risks of bringing in meat products;
• A review of APHA resource and available expertise to ensure it has the capability to respond quickly and effectively to notifiable disease outbreaks;
• A plan for regionalisation with trading partners to ensure that unaffected parts of the UK could still export pork in the event of an outbreak.

“ASF continues to spread in Europe with the last few months seeing the arrival of the virus for the first time in Sweden and cases in domestic pigs for the first time in Northern Italy, while various countries in the Balkans have been battling major outbreaks,” the NPA said.

“The British pig sector’s concerns have been exacerbated by the constant delays in implementing proper border checks on EU meat imports, the latest of which has put the introduction of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) back from October until well into next year. 

“In a response to a letter from NPA chairman Rob Mutimer, Farming Minister Mark Spencer gave no intention of introducing new checks in the meantime.”

The post NPA calls for UK gov to prepare for outbreak of African swine fever appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Located within the site of the existing business, the new plant will provide 60% of the company’s annual electricity requirements.

Wilson’s Country managing director, Lewis Cunningham, commented: “The potato waste from the business will be used as the main feedstock for the AD operation.

“It has taken two years to get the project through near to completion. The last piece in the jigsaw puzzle was the establishment of an interconnector between the AD plant and the national grid.

“The new system is being gradually brought on-line over the next number of weeks. It will reach full operational capacity by the end of November,” he added.

Anaerobic digestion

The management team at Wilson’s Country has confirmed the key role of the new AD operation in helping to bring down the carbon footprint of the overall business.

Company CEO, Angus Wilson said: “We have been using certified ‘green electricity’ only within our entire operation for the past couple of years.

“This step, alone, has allowed us to reduce the carbon intensity of the company by 75%.

“Being able to generate a significant proportion of our green electricity on-site allows us to reduce our overall energy bill while, also making more efficient use of the waste streams produced within the business.

“It all adds to the sustainability of Wilson’s Country into the future,” he added.

AD is the conversion of organic feedstock by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen into biogas and digestate.

The biogas which is produced can be used to generate electricity and heat.

“We have a large electricity requirement on site. This is needed to power our controlled temperature potato stores, processing and potato packing operations,” Wilson continued.

“Given the nature of our business, the actual amounts of electricity that we need can vary a lot throughout the year.

“However, there will also be occasions when there will be surplus electricity generated on site, which can be exported to the grid.”

A proportion of the waste heat produced will be used to maintain the operational temperature of the AD operation itself.

“We are also looking at options which will allow us make best use of the residual heat from the AD process that will be available to us,” Wilson said.

“We are committed to securing a carbon ‘net zero’ position for the business over the coming years. The investment in the new AD plant is a critically important step in this process.”

The post Potato processer commits £2m towards anaerobic digestion plant appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Policy officer at Bioenery Europe, Giacomo Bozio Madé said that biogas has been “negelcted” by the EU, and that biogas and biomethane policy, specific to Ireland is “not all roses”.

He said that the main challenge was the approach of European institutions, adding that there was a “need for massive support” from MEPs.

In 2021 the European combined biogas and biomethane production amounted to 196 terawatt-hours (Twh) from 19,910 plants, according to the European Biogas Association (EBA).

Already there is €18 billion earmarked for investment in biomethane production.

This includes €4.1 billion to be used for 2023-2025, €12.4 billion for 2026-2030, and a further €1 billion with no time frame specified.

International climate mitigation

Deputy director of policy, association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) UK, Mark Sommerfield spoke about the UK’s biomass strategy.

He said the UK places sustainability as “top priority” with commitment to development of a cross-sectoral sustainability criteria.

Short-term goals in the UK include:

• To be compatible with current and emerging sustainability criteria based on latest evidence, considering a range of economic, social, and environmental impacts;
• Utilise existing infrastructure and planned investments to provide through carbon abatement existing and emerging policy frameworks;
• Be compliant with waste hierarchy principles.

Some long-term goals include:

• To be compatible with the future cross-sectoral sustainability framework and associated sector specific criteria and legislation;
• Contribute to carbon budget and net zero by providing greatest life cycle greenhouse gas emissions savings;
• Be compliant with waste hierarchy principles and provide additional co-benefits and/or circular economy benefits.

Senior policy advisor for Carbonfuture, Sebastian Manhart addressed how the United States (US) is tackling carbon removal through $35 million in cash awards.

The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) offers awards in the form of agreements from the federal government in four carbon dioxide removal pathways:

• Direct air capture with storage;
• Biomass with carbon removal and storage;
• Enhanced weathering and mineralisation;
• Planned or managed carbon sinks.

The prize asks applicants to develop carbon dioxide purchase agreements through a pilot project delivering third-party verified carbon dioxide removal.

The post Climate mitigation strategies that the EU can learn from appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

A document published on the Defra website dated October 4, 2023, outlines that the “trade of live ruminants from France is postponed as they [France] are no longer able to comply with relevant animal health certificates”.

The postponement of ruminant livestock imports comes following the confirmation of Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in France.

On September 21, the presence of EHD was officially reported in France. Since then, the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty (MASA) has confirmed a total of 19 outbreaks of EHD, primarily in Pyrenees-Atlantiques and neighbouring municipalities.

As of October 4 of this year, the EU Animal Diseases Information System (ADIS) has reported 50 new outbreaks in Spain and 17 in Portugal.

According to Defra, the confirmation of EHD in southern France “is significant because now that EHD has crossed the Pyrenees mountains, there is greater potential for spread across mainland Europe towards Great Britain”.

The UK’s Defra considers the risk of introduction of EHD into Great Britain via movement of
live animals and/or vectors to be “negligible” but said in a statement it will “continue to monitor the situation”.

There have been consignments of live cattle and sheep scheduled to arrive in Great
Britain from France in recent weeks but Defra has confirmed that back-tracing is being conducted to identify any consignments of live ruminants and ruminant germplasm from France over the past 28 days.

Meanwhile in Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has urged farmers, veterinary practitioners and other relevant stakeholders to “remain vigilant” for EHD following the confirmation of the disease on three farms in France.

As a result of the EHD outbreak in southern France, a number of French cattle were unable to attend the French livestock show, Sommet de l’Elevage, last week due to concerns surrounding the virus.

The post Defra: French ruminant livestock imports to UK postponed appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

A new study has shown that whether or not blackgrass will be herbicide-resistant depends on more than just what is on its chromosomes.

Blackgrass is a growing threat on Irish tillage farms. It is believed that resistant strains of the weed have been coming into the country on imported machinery.

Once established, heavy infestations of herbicide-resistant grassweed can reduce cereal yields by up to 1.5t/ac.

Tackling blackgrass

The use of integrated pest management (IPM) practices will help to reduce the impact of blackgrass.

But getting a stronger research insight into the weed’s genetic mode of action is key to the development of future management and eradication strategies.

Rothamsted Research, in collaboration with scientists at Clemson University (US), has found that blackgrass has small loops of DNA that are outside the plant’s chromosomes.

These loops, called extra-chromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA), are not inherited in the same way that the chromosomes are.

They evolve separately from the main genetic structures in the cell nucleus and could help explain how blackgrass can rapidly develop resistance to herbicides or other stresses.

The research team identified the similarities and differences in the eccDNA in both resistant and sensitive populations.

Although the numbers and size of detected eccDNAs varied between the populations, comparisons managed to identify shared and unique genes and protein coding.

Compared to blackgrass that are herbicide sensitive, the eccDNA of herbicide-resistant weed have extra copies of genes known to confer herbicide resistance, including genes related to herbicide detoxification.

New information

Previous analysis of resistant and non-resistant varieties had clearly shown that resistance develops across multiple genes, but until now the mechanisms of how blackgrass could rapidly evolve these differences have been hard to pin down.

The researchers have shown that a combination of differences in chromosomal and eccDNA encoded genes might be responsible for the rapid evolution of herbicide resistance in blackgrass.

Rothamsted’s Dr. Dana MacGregor commented: “Because of advances in sequencing, we are now finding eccDNAs in many different species and are starting to understand what they do.

“Our findings show that blackgrass has eccDNAs, and on them are copies of chromosomal genes we know to be correlated with herbicide resistance.

“Having these eccDNAs may contribute to the genetic diversity we see in blackgrass and explain how it has so successfully adapted to man-made and abiotic stresses, including herbicide treatment.”

The post DNA loops provide clue to herbicide resistance in blackgrass appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The unions said it has been inundated with calls from members who are struggling to get silage and crop cut, and slurry out safely, with the poor weather and challenging ground conditions.

Northern Ireland’s slurry spreading deadline is midnight on Sunday, October 15, and the UFU said this has many farmers and contractors under pressure.

The union said the closed period dates are set in legislation and therefore any change or extension would require a change in the law and that, “with no ministers in Stormont, this is just not possible”.

“The UFU have always opposed farming by rigid calendar dates but at present there is no alternative.”

As the closed period approaches, the UFU said it is important that farmers comply with the spreading conditions of the Nutrients Action Programme to avoid penalties and risk to waterways.

Exceptional conditions

The ‘reasonable excuse’ clause in the Northern Ireland Action Programme caters for all exceptional conditions when farmers cannot fully comply with the rules, through no fault of their own.

This clause is used in years when weather and ground conditions made compliance impossible by individual farmers but could also cover other issues such as major disease outbreaks.

This also allows farmers on a case-by-case basis to spread beyond October 15, if a reasonable excuse can be shown, the UFU said.

It is still an offence for farmers to spread slurry during the closed period however, where in exceptional circumstances and if reasonable excuse can be proved, a defence may be made for non-compliance with the closed period.

“We would strongly urge farmers to proceed with caution and ensure they have exhausted every other appropriate avenue for dealing with slurry,” the UFU said.

“This does however offer more flexibility than a time-bound extension to the dates.

“The ‘reasonable clause’ should be used as a last resort, and it would be advisable to speak with your UFU technical officer.”

The post UFU contacts DAERA and NIEA over NI slurry spreading deadline appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The National Farmers’ Union of Scotland (NFU Scotland) has said its key concerns around the creation of any new national parks is that they “will not prioritise farming or food production”.

The union’s environmental resources policy manager, Sarah Cowie, wrote in her latest blog that the Scottish government made no mention of agriculture, food production or agri-tourism in its statement on the process of appointing a new park or parks.

Yesterday (Thursday, October 12), the Scottish government began its search for the country’s next national park – inviting communities and organisations to submit their proposals.

“The key concerns NFU Scotland has around the creation of any new national park is that it will not prioritise farming or food production, even though agriculture is likely to be the predominant land use in any new park,” Cowie said.

“Disappointingly, in the statement the Scottish government released to announce the process of appointing a new park or parks, there is no mention of agriculture, food production or agri-tourism despite these being key pillars and drivers of the rural economy.

“With justification, our members are concerned that the wider impacts of national parks on their businesses aren’t being taken into account.”

National parks

NFU Scotland said its members believe the same objectives for national parks can be achieved through other existing means, such as economic development agencies, regional land use partnerships and tourism bodies.

“For farming businesses to be profitable and sustainable, they have to invest and grow, and there are real concerns that national parks are just another layer of bureaucracy which won’t deliver for those living and working in the area,” Cowie said.

The union said its members have evidence of overcrowding, congestion, irresponsible access, livestock attacks by dogs and other antisocial behaviour within national parks.

“While NFU Scotland accepts the benefits of public access, it must be managed in a balanced way with support available for land managers where there are issues,” it said.

Cowie said the union believes a balance can be struck if all views are listened to and “not just those who are fully supportive of the proposals”.

“The key step the Scottish government must take to strike this balance is to ensure lessons are learned from the mistakes of the current two national parks,” she said.

“This means farming and food production must be prioritised, the local community has meaningful involvement in decision-making, and the national park authority is properly resourced.

“Only then can there be any chance of avoiding the negative impacts that we’ve outlined.”

Submissions

The deadline for submissions for aspiring national parks is February 29, 2024. 

The Scottish government said that, for the first time, nominations for a new park will be driven entirely by local communities and organisations.

To meet the criteria, groups must be able to demonstrate:

• Outstanding national importance due to natural or culture heritage;
• A distinctive character and coherent identity;
• How national park status would meet the specific needs of the area;
• Evidence of local support for the proposal.

Cairngorms national park authority board convener, Sandy Bremner, said: “This is a great opportunity for communities in Scotland to join the family of national parks to tackle some of the biggest challenges around nature loss, climate change and community development.

“National park status can bring enormous benefits to a region. It offers a heightened focus on the protection and enhancement of the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

“It can attract vital support to hard-pressed communities, and bring people together to achieve inspirational change.”

The post ‘Key concern’ over national parks is that farming will not be a priority – NFUS appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The co-op, which has 3,200 farm families supplying two billion litres of milk annually, said the initiative is being introduced to support milk suppliers in light of continued high inputs.

It is designed to support suppliers who produce milk through the winter months. It is also to help spring-calving herds manage the winter dry period.

Winter feed support

The initiative will see a €20/t or £20/t rebate applied to all Lakeland Dairies dairy feed purchased by milk suppliers during the four months of November 2023 through to February 2024.

Commenting on the support initiative, Lakeland Dairies chairperson Niall Matthews said: “As a board and a business, we are always looking at innovative ways to support our farm family suppliers.

“This has been a challenging year for all milk producers and we are moving to support our suppliers over the 2023/2024 winter period with this strong dairy feed initiative.

“Whether farmers are spring-calving or those who produce milk through the winter months, this initiative will financially support them over what is traditionally an expensive time in the farming calendar.”

Lakeland Dairies general manager of Lakeland Agri, Mark Delahunty added: “We are looking forward to rolling out this support to our farm family suppliers.

“It’s a very simple support in that whether you buy 1t or 20t, all tonnes will be discounted by €20/£20 per tonne.

“The loyalty and support of our farm families over the generations is what has allowed us to have a strong business today.

“We are acutely aware of the challenges that 2023 has brought and are glad that we can help in some way to manage costs across the winter period.”

The co-op said that terms and conditions apply and farmers can contact their local Lakeland Agri representative for further information on the initiative.

The post Lakeland Dairies announces winter feed support for suppliers appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Northamptonshire Police is appealing for witnesses after the theft of an orange and black mounted table saw from a Brown’s tractor in Oundle.

The theft is believed to have occurred between 10:00p.m on Tuesday (October 10) and 7:00a.m on Wednesday (October 11) in Harley Way, Oundle. A portable barbeque was also stolen.

“Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area between the stated times or who may have been offered any of the items pictured for sale in unusual circumstances,” Northamptonshire Police said.

“Anyone with information is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101, or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“Please quote incident number 23000632545 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”

Making machinery secure

Northamptonshire Police has advice for farmers on keeping their machinery secure and safe from thieves.

The tips include securing machinery with:

• Trackers;
• Alarms;
• An immobiliser;
• CCTV.

Police asked farmers to consider fitting machinery and vehicles with a tracking device and/or tagging system.

“Lock or immobilise vehicles and equipment when you’re not using them,” Northamptonshire Police said.

“Remove keys from cars, tractors and any other vehicles you leave unattended.

“If you’re using a tracking company you must still contact police to create a crime report number.”

The post Police appeal for witnesses to Oundle machinery theft appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The two-day event, FoodTechIL, was due to take place from November 7-8, however the organisers have decided to postpone the event as result of the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

It was due to bring more than 3,000 people to Tel Aviv and online with 75 Israeli startups to feature, as well as food tastings, global food-tech speakers and business-to-business meeting areas.

Israeli food summit

The event, which was scheduled to take place at Tel Aviv Cultural Centre, was organised by the Strauss Group in association with the Israel Innovation Authority and Ministry of Economy and Industry.

In a statement about postponing the event, organisers said: “To our dear speakers, startups, partners and guests. We are sorry to announce that following the severe terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, we are postponing FoodTechIL 2023.

“We will update you as soon as possible on the next steps regarding our summit. We highly appreciate your understanding and support in these sad moments.

“Our hearts are with the families of the dead, wounded and missing.”

Among the speakers who had been scheduled to speak at the summit were CEO and co-founder of Chunk Foods, Amos Golan, deputy under secretary with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Sanah Baig and chief information officer (CIO) with Danone Manifesto Ventures, Clemence Delcourt.

There is no indication yet if the event will be rescheduled for a future date.

The post Major Israeli food summit postponed amid conflict appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The union’s advice follows calls for farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue virus (BTV-3) as reports of a new strain in the Netherlands emerged.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) confirmed the presence of BT-3 at four sheep farms in the Netherlands last month – the country’s first outbreak since 2009. The route of BTV-3 incursion into the Netherlands is currently unknown.

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has since confirmed that as of September 29, 416 outbreaks of BTV-3 have been reported by the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.

Bluetongue has also been confirmed in neighbouring Belgium this month, however the strain has yet to be named. BTV-8 has also been confirmed in France.

The UFU said farmers must be aware of current risks to help safeguard Northern Ireland’s livestock industry.

UFU deputy president John McLenaghan said: “In recent weeks a number of diseases are said to be circulating across Europe.

“A new strain of bluetongue was initially detected in Holland but has now spread into Belgium, and epizootic haemorrhagic disease has been detected in Southern France, having spread from Spain and Portugal.

“Whilst imports from Holland and Belgium are no longer possible as export conditions cannot be met due to the diseases circulating, local farmers need to be aware that animals originating from neighbouring jurisdictions could carry a significant risk.”

Should farmers buy livestock in Europe, McLenaghan said they need to be “extremely cautious” and report any possible signs of disease immediately.

“Farmers must also bear in mind that should their imported animals be infected by bluetongue or epizootic haemorrhagic disease, there is no compensation for animals that must be removed from the farm,” he said.

“This stresses the importance of protecting the herd and the farm business.”

BTV-3 symptoms

Symptoms of BTV-3 can vary across ruminants, with sheep generally exhibiting more overt symptoms than cattle, but both can showcase clinical signs.

Symptoms in sheep include:

• Drooling;
• Mouth lesions;
• High fever;
• Lameness;
• Oedema (swollen heads);
• Sudden death.

Cattle are not usually as severely affected but may show similar clinical signs as well as teat, eye, coronary band and nose lesions.

The post UFU urges bluetongue vigilance as cases rise in Europe appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Interim chief executive, Colin Smith said: “The remaining 150 surveys will be completed during the months of October, November and December.

“The information gathered will be used to test the process of carbon data collection on farm and if data quality is sufficient, can be used to determine a carbon footprint for each individual business.

“The initial surveys will specifically provide a carbon baseline for each business that is surveyed.”

The information gathered from the research and development phase will also be used to continually refine and improve the carbon survey process.

“Large numbers of farm quality beef and sheep farms operate other enterprises within their businesses: dairy, pigs, poultry, arable etc.,” he continued.

“As a consequence, surveying these farms, across all of their enterprises will allow a carbon calculation on a whole farm basis.”

Research into carbon farm surveys

The carbon surveys are carried out as a ‘bolt-on’ to a scheduled farm quality assurance inspection.

“Each of the farmers taking part in this research and development work is selected at random. The farmer is supplied with a checklist with helpful templates to aid preparation ahead of the farm visit,” Smith continued.

“If the checklist has been completed prior to the actual survey taking place, then the additional time required to complete the process on the day of the inspection will be in the region of 90 minutes.

“The farmers will also be contacted by LMC beforehand giving an opportunity to secure whatever advice they need.”

He added that some red meat and dairy processers have also committed to assist farmers in advance of the farm visit.

Smith has pointed out that LMC is carrying out these surveys on behalf of Northern Ireland’s Carbon Steering Group (CSG).

The CSG has been set up to represent farmers and the agri-food industry, and progress with the carbon element of Northern Ireland’s sustainability agenda.

The collaboration has been built on the recognition that an industry wide coordinated approach is the most effective way to ensure the farming sectors are heard and that the best solutions are achieved for everyone in Northern Ireland.

“The farming industry must establish a baseline carbon footprint, which will be important in evidencing our sustainability credentials,” Smith continued.

“The research and development phase is the first step in this process. Beyond this, industry and government are looking at a more extensive body of work to identify the carbon footprint of agriculture in Northern Ireland as a whole.

“The information gathered in this way must be relevant and accurate across the industry as a whole.”

The post LMC carbon surveys: Research and development phase continues appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

Two lambs have been killed in a suspected dog attack in the Llanyre area of Radnorshire, Powys, Wales.

Dyfed Powys Police’s rural crime team said the incident of livestock worrying took place between October 8 and 9.

The team urged anyone with any information on the incident to come forward.

Livestock worrying

Dyfed Powys Police said livestock worrying is a criminal offence and comes under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953.

The definition of ‘worrying’ is where a dog attacks or chases livestock causing injury or suffering.

“This isn’t just a threat to a farmer or land owner’s livelihood, it’s also a dangerous situation for the animals involved, and could lead to more risk if the animals get onto the road,” the force said.

“A farmer is allowed to kill the dog if it’s worrying their livestock.”

Dyfed Powys Police urged dog owners to keep their dogs under control around other animals and to report any incidences of dogs on the loose worrying animals.

Livestock theft

On livestock theft, Dyfed Powys Police said farmers can implement preventative measures to reduce the risk of their livestock being taken.

These steps include:

• Make regular checks of the fields where animals are kept to check that fences haven’t been breached and that no one else is in the field with them;
• Use ear tags, horn brands, freeze marking or tattooing to make your animals more easily identifiable;
• Keep your hedges, fences and gates in good repair: field gate hinges should have capping hinges so they can’t be removed easily; cattle grids should be removable and locked out of position when they’re not in use; use locking posts to obstruct large openings to yards;
• Consider installing CCTV.

The force said farmers should check their livestock and the security of boundary fencing regularly.

“If they’re making more noise than usual this could mean something has disturbed them,” it said.

The post 2 lambs killed in suspected dog attack in Llanyre appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

A base price of 34c/L at constituents of 3.6% butterfat and 3.3% protein, will be paid for September milk in the Republic of Ireland.

The base price is unchanged from the price paid in August.

In Northern Ireland, a base price of 27.25p/L will be paid for milk supplied in September. Again, the base price has been held for September supplies.

In a statement, the co-op said: “While sentiment in the global dairy market has shown some tentative signs of improvement in recent weeks, there has been little in the way of increased activity with buyers continuing to take a reserved position.

“We are entering a crucial demand period for dairy, against a backdrop of New Zealand approaching its peak milk supply months.

“Lakeland Dairies will continue to monitor the markets closely in the time ahead.”

It is the first processor to announce its price for milk supplied in September

Lakeland Dairies

Last month, Aldi Ireland agreed four major new deals with Irish-based suppliers, including Lakeland Dairies, worth more than €26 million.

Lakeland signed a deal worth €15.3 million per year with Aldi which will see the processor’s footprint grow as it continues to supply milk and dairy products, including Clonbawn fresh and light milk.

Meanwhile, last week, Lakeland Dairies set a target of a 30% reduction in factory emissions by 2030 in its new sustainability strategy.

The strategy, titled ‘Pathway to a Better Future’, sets several targets the processor aims to meet by 2030.

Among these targets are 30% reductions in emissions in both factory processes (including the processor’s own emissions production and emissions from its energy consumption), and emissions at farm level.

According to Lakeland, its strategy is based on six ‘pillars’, namely: Climate action; sustainable farms; supply chains; people and communities; sustainable operations; and responsible business.

The post Lakeland Dairies announces milk price for September supplies appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) is seeking the next winners of its Farm Health Management Awards.

The awards, which are sponsored by Volac, are now open to applications from vet and agriculture university students.

The RABDF awards aim to demonstrate an understanding of, and test student’s knowledge of, proactive farm health management.

The prize is £500, which three winners will receive under three different categories, and the deadline for entries is December 8, 2024.

RABDF Farm Health Management Awards

The competition is split into three categories: students at agricultural colleges, agricultural universities and vet schools, and is open to students in all year groups.

A 1,500-word essay on the subject of proactive farm health management must be submitted by students, with a winner for each category taking home the £500 prize.

Essays are judged by a panel of industry experts, including a representative of RABDF and award sponsor Volac.

A shortlist of entries will be invited to attend Dairy-Tech at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on February 7, 2024, where the winners will be announced.

Managing director at RABDF, Matthew Knight, said: “Farm Health Management is an integral part of running a productive and profitable farm as well as being an integral in delivering health and welfare improvements as part of Defra’s (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.

“We can’t wait to see what this year’s entrants decide to focus on in their essays and how it links with Defra’s recommendations for higher welfare throughout the industry.”

The post RABDF Farm Health Management Awards open to ag and vet students appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

A food processing company has been fined £20,000 after a worker’s arm was drawn into machinery and seriously injured.

58-year-old Piotr Zielinski from Nottinghamshire was working for the company, Belwood Foods Limited, when his right arm was drawn into a poultry processing machinery while cleaning it.

The incident, which led to Zielinksi’s skin and muscle being removed in his right arm and his wrist being crushed, took place on November 22, 2019, at Belwood Foods’ site at Lowmoor Business Park, Kirkby-in-Ashfield.

Zielinski had been removing debris that was trapped on the hinges of an open access panel door at the base of a hopper machine.

The door had been opened to allow the debris to drain from the auger.

While removing the debris however, the auger was still in operation and caught the worker’s right arm, drawing it into the machine up to the elbow.

‘Easily preventable’

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the access panel door was able to be opened freely whilst the auger was in motion.

There were no controls in place to prevent the panel from being opened while the auger was moving.

It was not locked or interlocked, and there was no safe isolation procedure for this weekly cleaning task.

HSE inspector Lee Greatorex said: “This injury was easily preventable.

“Employers have a responsibility to properly assess the risks from all aspects of their operations, including cleaning and maintenance, and implement effective control measures to minimise the risk from dangerous parts of machinery.

“HSE will not hesitate to take action against companies which do not do all that they should to keep people safe.”

Belwood Foods Limited, of the Henley Building, Newtown Road, Henley-on-Thames,  Oxfordshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act (1974).

The company was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £7,839.21 in costs at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on October 9, 2023.

The post Food processing company fined £20k after worker’s arm crushed in machine appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.

The Co. Armagh-based potato packer and processer works with growers throughout the island of Ireland.

Company managing director, Lewis Cunningham told Agriland: “We are about six weeks behind with this year’s harvest. Yields are down approximately 10%, year-on-year. Tuber quality is also an issue.”   

Challenging year for the potato crop

Cunningham confirmed that local potato growers are facing into one of the most challenging harvests in living memory.

“The harvest is just the latest setback that has confronted potato growers this year,” he added.

“The very wet weather in April meant that main crop potatoes were not planted out until the middle of May, a full six weeks later than would normally be the case.

“Drought-like conditions followed, which hampered the germination and early growth of crops. But then came the heavy rains of July and August.

“Short of heavy snow in the middle of the summer, Northern Ireland’s potato growing community has had to cope with every extreme of weather that nature could ever conceive of throwing at them in 2023,” he said.

Even before this year’s potato harvest got underway, potato growers knew that yields would be well down, year-on-year.

“The switch from the very hot and dry conditions of June to the monsoons of July has created growth cracking problems in quite a number of crops,” Cunningham added.

“Something consumers do not want to see in bags and as a result, the potatoes in question cannot be sold in retail outlets.

“Also as the industry was coming out of a year with extremely low stocks of potatoes in store from the previous season, we really needed a early good yielding harvest with no problems.

“Early September saw harvest get underway but it quickly turned into a nightmare, as growers attempt to lift potatoes out of the ground that is just saturated, conditions have been more like November than September,” the Wilson Country’s managing director added.

 He explained that ground conditions were “pretty much bottomless” at the time, especially after Storm Agnes.

He said that he saw potato harvesters getting totally bogged down in places like Bishopscourt in Co. Down.

According to Lewis Cunningham, potato growers across Europe have had major challenges to confront throughout 2023.

“Most of these issues have been weather-related. Floods earlier in the year created major delays in planting dates in countries like France, Italy, Spain and Portugal,” he said.

“This was followed by a prolonged drought, which served to reduce the yield potential of potato crops dramatically.

“As a consequence, potato supplies will be very constrained right across Europe over the coming months,” he continued.

Adding to the economic pressures on potato growers in 2023 were the very strong fertiliser and agrochemical prices that characterised the entire growing season.

“Sustainable prices at retail level will be required to get the entire potato sector through the next few months.”

The post Two-thirds of potato crop yet to be harvested appeared first on Agriland.co.uk.