Farming Scotland Magazine (March-April 2012)

SPRAYERS

IRRIGATION • FENCING • PROTECTIVE WORKWEAR

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND ANCANTHUS HAND MADE PIES

ARABLE • POTATOES • RENEWABLE ENERGY

LIVESTOCK • GADGETS • FINANCE

FUTURE FARMER • MACHINERY • BOOK REVIEW

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com APRIL 2012

PUBLISHER/EDITORAthole Murray FlemingE-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

ADVERTISING DIRECTORAthole Murray FlemingTel. 01738 639747

ADVERTISING MANAGERBarry TweedTel. 01738 550090Email: [email protected]

PRODUCTION DIRECTORChristina FlemingEmail: [email protected]

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PUBLISHER’S NOTES

COPYRIGHTThis publication has been produced and published by ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD who are the copyright owners. No reproduction, copying, image scanning, storing or recording of any part of this publication without the permission of ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD.

SUPPLIED MATERIALATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD does not accept any liability for loss or damage to supplied film transparencies, photographs or other such promotional material.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is designed, produced and published by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd.

Tolastadh, 18 Corsie Drive,Kinnoull, Perth, Scotland PH2 7BU. Tel. 01738 639747E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

©ATHOLE DESIGN 2012

ISSN: 2041–918X

Farming the Brave?We all know what is going on right now in Scotland with regards to the country’s future, either as an independent nation state (does true independence really exist?) or as a continuing part of the political union that is the UK.

This burning issue is on the TV, on the radio, in the papers and in the press releases from those ‘with a viewpoint’ here at FSM HQ – there is just no escaping it.

“Scottish Farmers may go bankrupt if Scotland chooses Independence” is just one piece of rubbish that came though my computer recently. Is this the best argument that we can expect from those of a unionist mind?

Oh, and don’t even get me started on the nonsense about ‘not being allowed to keep the pound”. Who will stop us? ”Aye, you and who’s army”, I hear some say.

But seriously, one thing I know for sure is that the business community from Lands End to John O’Groats all work and trade services and products together – and will continue to do so (if they want to stay in business) no matter what the people of Scotland decide to do in 2014.

We should all thank our lucky stars that more politicians do not run businesses up and down this island of ours!

No matter what, the business community will get on with trading and doing business together – some politicians and their PR companies should ‘get a grip’ and stop sending me any more stupid “scare stories”…I will not publish them in this magazine.

A balanced debate please?

Athole

Main FeaturesSprayers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-18Irrigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-23Fencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25Protective Workwear . . . . . . . . . . 28-29

Flavour of ScotlandAcanthus Hand-Made Pies . . . . . . . . . . 9

Regular ColumnsScottish Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5NFU of Scotland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Farming for a better Climate . . . . . . . 20 Crofting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31The Vet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Finance Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39People on the Move. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

News SectionArable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Renewable Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . 19-20Potatoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27 Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-35 Gadgets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37-39Future Farmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-49

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ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW SPECIALSCOTSHEEP • BALERS • SHEARINGPOTATO EQUIPMENT • DRILLING

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ARABLE

THOUGHTS ON CAP REFORM

By Richard LochheadRural Affairs and Environment Secretary

The Scottish Government

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SPRAYERS FOR 2012There is a wide of sprayers to meet every need, here are just some of them


SPRAYERS

Amazone efficiencyThe trend these days in trailed sprayers is slanted towards increasing efficiency and this can be achieved by either increasing tank size and boom width or by adding additional ‘comfort’ features to help improve efficiency. Amazone currently offers a range of trailed sprayers up to 12,000 litre in capacity and in boom widths up to 40m and are at the forefront of utilising technology to help the operator.

Tank size is a compromise between reducing the number of fill-ups per day (thus increasing the amount of time spraying and decreasing the amount of time to-ing and fro-ing to fill up) and carrying that extra weight and size about which could potentially damage the soil structure. However, this can be counteracted by improved tyre equipment using either a wider section/bigger diameter tyre or by using radial tyres for better weight carrying at less pressure. A wider boom width will also increase output, but this is where the need for ‘comfort’ features comes into its own, as a wider boom needs more operator input to control it’s contour following ability. The need to constantly adjust the boom tilt, height and wing tip angle takes its toll on the driver and also means a slower forward speed to give time to make those adjustments.

Kuhn’s new compact boom with diagonal foldingA new compact boom folding

Amazone sprayer

Kuhn Metris 4100

SPRAYERS


system is now available from Kuhn Farm Machinery.

The MEA3 boom folding system is available on the mounted DELTIS and ALTIS sprayers as well as the trailed METRIS models.

This system, with its diagonal boom positioning, allows for very compact format when not in use – fitting within the machine’s dimensions to improve transport safety and avoiding spray droplets falling on the tractor. The MEA3 works in tandem with the OPTILIFT parallelogram mounting system that provides increased stability and reliability.

Booms constructed of 100% aluminium are a common feature on Kuhn sprayers, providing the advantages of being relatively lightweight and being more resistant to corrosion than alternatives. On Deltis and Altis mounted models, booms are constructed with only three arms, improving stability and increasing reliability due to the reduced articulation points.

New Kondor booms from BerthoudThe three way folding of Berthoud’s new Kondor boom keeps the boom within the ‘envelope’ of the trailed sprayer in transport mode and reduces the overall transport height.

The steel boom offers 32 to 38m variable geometry and steel construction for those operators who may prefer steel to aluminium.

Kondor provides operators with the flexibility to alter suspension to best suit the terrain they are working on, its DDL system enabling them to select either the Pendulo or the Axiale centre pivot system from inside the cab. Kondor is available on Tenor and Raptor models.

Chafer Guardian & Sentry sprayersChafer Guardian and Sentry trailed sprayers are engineered to a common design to offer huge spraying output and performance, combined with absolute precision in application and control. Every sprayer is packed with innovative features and systems to increase efficiency and spray timeliness whilst safeguarding the environment and the operator. Sprayers and sprayer operators have to work longer and harder than ever before so a range of the latest electronic control systems are available to aid operation and maximise sprayer performance.

Challenger RoGator 600 ‘B’ sprayer sets new standardsChallenger is further increasing its lead in the self-propelled sprayer sector with the launch of the new RoGator 600 ‘B’ Series at the LAMMA Show. Independent tests prove the sprayer not only offers operators the cleanest cab air quality of any farm machine, but its design and features

meet the highest European standards.

With the introduction of the latest ‘B’ Series the RoGators

also benefit from the latest, most economical engines with Selective Catalytic Reduction technology as well as the option

“Contact our dealer Wallace of Kelso for more information”

Berthoud’s new Kondor boom


SPRAYERS

of the new C3000, advanced electronic control terminal.

The RoGator 600 is the first, and only, farm machine to ever achieve a Category 4 rating

for its cab air quality. Passing this strict independent test puts the self-propelled sprayer in a class of its own, providing operators with the cleanest air

quality on the market – bar none.

To achieve this unique clean air rating the cab has to comply with the industry’s highest standards*, which ensure operators are protected from dust, aerosols and vapours. Challenger was able to attain this rating by starting with the advantage of using the top specification pressurised cabin from the MT tractor range, which now has a sealed back window and increased airflow.

Hardi Navigator with more electronic optionsThe Hardi Navigator sprayer is now offered with a wider range of electronic controllers. There is also an ISOBUS option, so the customer can use an existing ISOBUS terminal to operate the sprayer.

To make the sprayer operation easier, the proven Hardi Grip is utilised with the Navigator sprayer so all primary spray functions, such as on/off and section switches as well as the hydraulic operation can easily and safely take place by means of a joystick. Also a SetBox is used to operate sprayer specific equipment as IntelliTrack steering directly.

If the existing Virtual terminal has an automatic section control which is following the defined task controller function of the ISOBUS standard, for example the John Deere Sprayer Pro, than the ISOBUS terminal can operate the distribution valves of the Navigator, so the customer doesn’t need a separate Hardi AutoSectionControl.

Existing avigator prayers with HC6500 terminal can be updated to an ISOBUS sprayer. That is also possible for sprayers which will be now ordered with the Hardi Controller 6500, the customer has only to buy the ISOBUS bridge, so the ISOBUS terminal could communicate with the Hardi jobcom.

John Deere 700 & 700i Series sprayersDesigned for medium sized arable farms, John Deere’s 700 Series mid-specification trailed sprayer range includes the 724, 732 and 740 models, in either basic Farmer or i-Solutions versions.

These offer tank capacities of 2400, 3200 and 4000 litres respectively, and a choice of either 18 to 28m double folding booms, with a transport width of 2.5m, or 28m triple folding booms, which feature a reduced folding height and 3m transport width.

John Deere’s new Z-Bar linkage ensures that the boom always remains close behind the sprayer’s wheels, increasing stability and optimising weight distribution at all spraying heights. The chassis design features a low centre of gravity for extra stability in the field and maximum weight transfer to the tractor.

An optional automatic steering drawbar allows the sprayer wheels to follow the tractor’s rear wheels exactly. This reduces crop damage during headland turns and

Chafer Guardian sprayer


SPRAYERS

improves the sprayer’s manoeuvrability.

Knight’s mighty 6000-litre sprayerThe biggest sprayer at LAMMA

this year was the Knight EUA6000 trailed model, with a 6000-litre stainless steel main tank and 24-metre boom.

Like all Knight’s high-capacity EUA machines, the

show model had a sprung steering axle with an electronic control system, which provides good stability and accurate tracking performance when spraying. An integrated

control system groups all sprayer functions in a multi-function joystick that combines application control, boom switching and all hydraulic functions. Automatic boom height adjustment, boom levelling and GPS-activated nozzle switching can also be fitted.

The model at LAMMA had Knight’s MAXImiser pressurised circulation system with air-operated nozzle bodies, which reduces chemical retention in the spray-lines and shortens washing-out time. The MAXImiser system also allows two sets of nozzles to be fitted on a single spray-line and activated singly or in pairs to provide a wide range of application rates.

EUA machines are available with booms up to 40 metres wide.

Challenger RoGator


SPRAYERSThe Vicon rangeVicon Sprayers offer a range of sprayers from small mounted up to large high specification trailed machines. Over the last two years the range has undergone an intensive upgrade from the styling of the machines to unique technical developments. The new features that can be seen across the whole range of machines include, ISObus ready machine to simply plug into your ISObus tractor or controller, easy set plumbing with two taps controlling all sprayer functions, these can also be upgraded to be electrically controlled, iXclean comfort which allows the operator to activate an automatic full system wash out by simply pressing one button, Simple GPS guidance with section control or full field mapping with variable rate application and section control including data recording and transfer to and from an office PC.

The range has been extended this year with the inclusion of a new front tank enabling operators to extend there spraying capacity by 1100 Litres, this comes in two versions a manual transfer system of an automatic transfer system that will allow the tractor to be automatically John Deere 732i

Hardi Navigator 6500

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

SPRAYERS

balanced while spraying, the front tank holds its own clean water system and electric 12v pump allowing for agitation and washing separate to the main sprayer.

Sales success for Sands Vision rangeSince its introduction in early 2009 the Vision has become well known for reliability, performance and comfort making it one of the most popular self propelleds in the country. In the past twelve months the export market has been particularly buoyant with Visions being delivered to New Zealand, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and the Czech Republic. However the UK market is what the Company was founded on and also where it sees the greatest potential for future growth.

Sands also rely heavily on their customers, new and old, for comments and suggestions on what can be improved or added to make the Vision the best machine available in today’s market. Many current features on the Vision have been customer inspired from the introduction of the massively reduced plumbing system through to ‘simple’ ad-ons such as handsfree phone kits, auto headland boom lift, electric lumbar support on the driver’s

seat and simpler controls in the cab. We’ve also taken notice of comments when updating the cab, both internally and externally, with the addition of extra work lights at the rear, increased storage, extra power sockets and improved visibility.

Sands have also been heavily involved in the fitment of GPS systems on their Visions with approximately 75% of machines now being fitted with auto section control during manufacture.

New from TeamTeam’s new Sigma mounted sprayer is a close coupled design with impressive boom options.

Available with 800, 1000 and 1200 litre tanks it is a replacement for Team’s highly successful Custom Standard range and can be supplied with booms from 12 to 18m which fold to a compact 2.4m transport width.

Users can choose from a 12m manual fold ‘Auto- Glide’ boom or rear fold hydraulic booms from 12 to 18m. The booms can be part folded for narrower application requirements. Aluminium ‘break back’ end sections keep the steel booms light while close coupling optimises weight distribution on smaller tractors (70 to 100hp).

Knight sprayer


SPRAYERS

“We feel there is a market for the Sigma with small to medium sized farmers and growers, especially in the West

Country, Wales, Scotland and the Channel Islands where smaller fields are common” says Danny Hubbard.

“The new models have the option of a ‘quick hitch’ 3 point linkage system and a removable chassis mounted

wheel kit for ease of moving around the workshop.”

The new Team Sigma can be seen on stand 181/ Hall 1 at Lamma.

The Farmgem SapphireFarmGEM (former GEM Sprayers) have been very pleased with the amount of interest they are receiving in their robust range of sprayers that they launched some 3 years ago.

The range consists of mounted sprayers from 200 to 1800 litres with booms from 6 to 28m, trailed sprayers from 2000 to 6000 litres with booms from 18 to 36m and a JCB Fastrac de-mount sprayer. At the recent LAMMA Show the new Sapphire II self-propelled sprayer was launched. It is powered by a Perkins engine providing up to 200hp to the hydrostatic drive system.

Vicon

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD.

D-K-RAGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD.

Main Dealers for JOHN DEERE Sprayers


SPRAYERS

The cab provides a fantastic operating environment and panoramic vision. The sprayer unit has 3000, 3500 or 4000 litre tank options and boom widths from 24 to 36 metres available. Also launched at the show was the FSV mounted sprayer with a 12/18/20/24 metre vertical folding boom. The tank options available to this new range will be 1300, 1600 or 1800 litres and the larger 5000 and 6000 litre models of the popular GEM-Trak trailed range. The GEM-Trak is equipped as standard with the “Signal Steer” auto steering axle, however for those with an electronics phobia a mechanical version of the steering axle is also available.

Kelland’s Agribuggy 2500The long-awaited new cab

from Kelland is here - and they are confident it’s been worth the wait! Stylish and functional it has many improved features including the new air conditioning system - now mounted in the roof and the new heating system - next to your feet. The glass is all curved which cuts down the reflections in the cab and makes it all more pleasing to the eye. The size has increased making it very light and airy and at the same time makng access much easier.

New consoles for sprayer controls and gear lever make operating much more comfortable and there’s storage space integrated for documents and the mobile phone. There’s even stacks of room for the lunch box and dog!

Rear fold booms sprayers from BargamBargam add a new BDU range of rear fold boom sprayers to their portfolio

Boom sizes range from 12 through to 30m, special features

include total nozzle protection along the full length of the boom. Yet still allow easy access to service anti drip valves etc. The tank shape has been improved and 3 point linkage geometry is redesigned to give a much

Team Sigma

Sand Vision

Farmgem Sapphire

IntroducingThe New Multidrive Sprayer

The strongest and most powerful self-propelled sprayer/spreader with up to 5000 litres and 36 metres

Birdlip, Gloucestershire GL4 8JHTel. 01452 863900 email: [email protected]

www.kellands.co.uk

Also available


SPRAYERS

smoother ride on the road. The end sections on the 20m upward are made of Aluminium to keep the weight to a minimum. The boom arms can be angled independently and folded to a variety of working widths see more on the web: www.bargam.

co.uk The spray controls for setting up the machine have been simplified for ease of operation. The Super BDU range from 1300 to 1650 litres, comes spray rate controller and auto boom shut off ready, should the customer require it.

For smaller farming units the 12 and 15m BDX versions are available with a hydraulic rear cross folding boom,

Kellands new cab

Bargam BDU rear fold boom folded

available on tank sizes from 600 to 1300 litres, making it one of the best priced, value for money sprayers on the market.


RENEWABLEENERGY


RENEWABLEENERGY

Getting the cash value from farm slurry

By Rebecca Audsley, Scottish Agricultural College

Taking the time for a second look at nutrients supplied by farm slurry applications could lead to real savings on your annual fertiliser bill, reduce your carbon footprint and keep you on the right side of Scottish legislation.

Soil testing on a 3 to 5 year rotation will help you to estimate what percentage of crop nutrient requirements could be supplied by the soil reserve. Combined with taking account of nutrients supplied in slurry, you can then calculate and better target bagged fertiliser additions.

Planning when you apply slurry could help you to make the most of nutrient values, for example research shows that crops are better able to access slurry nitrogen following a spring application when the crop is actively growing. If applying to the crop at the right time, each 10m! (2,200 gallon) tanker of slurry could potentially be worth in the region of £50 in terms of nutrient content.

How you apply slurry could also make a difference. Keeping slurry applications low to the ground and therefore closer to the plant,

for example using injectors, a trailing shoe or dribble bar, means that more slurry could penetrate the soil and nutrients are better placed for crop uptake. This approach could also reduce sward contamination and reduce the amount of nitrous oxide (known to be one of the six gases implicated in climate change) lost into the atmosphere when compared with splash plate application.

There are a number of ways you can estimate nutrients in both slurry and manures and balance fertiliser application to achieve optimum economic yields; good starting point would be PLANET Scotland. PLANET Scotland is a free nutrient management software tool tailored to Scottish conditions that automatically takes account of nutrients provided in slurry and manures when calculating nutrient requirements. It available as a download from the PLANET website at www.planet4farmers.co.uk and is supported by a free telephone helpdesk. It could be time well spent, as a few slight changes in how you manage farm slurry and manures might be worth more than you think?

IRRIGATION


New Javelin equipment launchedJavelin Irrigation Systems has two main machinery dealers in Scotland. RGS Forfar Ltd and Fergusson Systems, based at North Berwick, offer a local point of contact for sales and after-sales back-up for equipment such as Irrifrance and RM hose reel irrigators, booms, diesel engine pump units, rainguns and Rovatti pumps. Accessories such as Irrifrance, Wright Rain and Bauer type pipework and fittings and Javelin/Murphy engine monitoring equipment are also readily available to reduce down-time during the important summer months.

In preparation for the 2012 irrigation season RGS Forfar Ltd has available ex-stock an Irrifrance Optima 1036 110/500 irrigator. This machine has the high-specification Irridoseur computer which gives the user full control over water application rates, is fully hydraulically operated and has a new valve system which replaces the previous type electro-valves.

New to the Javelin product range for 2012 is the Falcon 50 folding irrigation boom which was successfully

launched at the LAMMA Show in January.

This new aluminium irrigation boom can quickly be unfolded/folded in-field by one operator and is easily transported connected to the reel irrigator between irrigation positions. Working with medium sized irrigators this boom can give a wetted width of approximately 60 metres with the low pressure nozzles working from just one bar. The self-levelling structure allows permanent horizontal operation

and the turntable has full 360° rotation which can overcome in-field obstacles.

For further information or assistance regarding irrigation or pump equipment please contact RGS Forfar Ltd, Fergusson Systems or Javelin Irrigation direct on 01507 607175.

SIL Greencrop Diesel Irrigation Pump Controls RangeThroughout 2011 a small team of dedicated engineers have

been working with carefully selected operators to develop and test a new generation of Diesel Irrigation Pump Controls. The goals were improved fuel efficiency, avoiding irrigation main failures (bursts) and reliable fully automated, unattended operation.

For Greencrop’s trials they chose the most demanding environments from the Flat Lands of Norfolk to the Hills of Scotland and the Heat of the South Coast Summer. New features were refined to optimise

Javelin F50 Boom


IRRIGATION

Stirling01786 477530

Perth01738 622471

Cupar01334 652445

Dealers for Wright Rain Irrigation Equipment

Branches at

REEKIE GROUP

www.reekie.co.uk

pressure and flow management to minimise irrigation water main stresses during all phases of operation. Accurate pressure and flow management throughout irrigation runs improved uniform water delivery. Fast and reliable leak detection avoids loss of valuable water resources. Remote monitoring and control using mobile telephone technology means fewer visits to the pump for the operator.

The first operators are so pleased with the results they are the subject of testimonials

highlighting our achievement to improve efficiency, reliability and optimised utilisation of pumps and their valuable water. New Features for 2012 include - Multi Irrigator Flow and Pressure Management, Irrigation Main Surge Protection, Accurate & Fast Burst Pipe Detection, Remote Start Stop Control, Monitoring and Data Logging, Irrigation and Reservoir Water Transfer Operating Modes.

All SIL Diesel Pump Control Systems are built to the highest standards to withstand tough operating environments. The combination of Careful Design, Testing and Proven Technology ensures high reliability and long life. The SIL450 and SIL900 series of controls are specifically designed for Agricultural Irrigation. Fuel Efficiency, Maximised Water Utilisation and Automatic Operation combine Models are also available for Slurry & Waste Spreading and Dirty Water handling.

SIL is a company specialising in demanding pumping applications including agricultural, fire protection and the petrochemical industry.

Keeping it ‘reel’ with Wright RainTo complement Wright Rain’s full range of Rainmaker hose reel irrigators, the company has been taking advantage of it’s long tradition, and vast experience in the complete irrigation system design for agriculture in both the UK and overseas markets.

This is an area of the irrigation business that has changed over the last few years, where customers were phoning up looking for the keenest price on a specific piece of equipment such as piping or a hose reel irrigator, without too much regard to the suitability of existing pumping and piping system efficiency.

With increasing fuel and running costs with, potentially, limited water resources, the overall system design is more crucially important than ever before, and is an area where equipment suppliers are sometimes lacking without the support of substantial and experienced irrigation specialist back-up.

Wright Rain are pleased to offer this support to our dealers throughout the UK and overseas with the confidence of a vast range of equipment and system des ign exper ience encompassing not only agriculture, but, Industrial Dust Suppression, large scale pumping applications, landscape and sports turf irrigation throughout the UK.

As part of Wright Rain’s range of Hose Reel Irrigators and aluminium pipe and fittings that have been the main-stay of UK agricultural irrigation for over 50 years, Wright Rain has

Greencrop GCEPW info screen


IRRIGATIONa complete range of diesel engined pump units with varying levels of automation, fuel tank capacities and sound proofing, to suit every application.

Wright Rain also specialises in designing and assembling complete, automated, electric pumping systems specifically designed for the individual farm application allowing for future expansions, flexibility and containerised for housing and security, where required.

Many of these Wright Rain pumping systems have been provided over the last few years specific to the agricultural or Industrial applications and using the most efficient computerised control systems to most affectively minimise the power consumption and subsequent running costs.

Turn-key installations, containerised pumping systems, auto-restart control panels with conventional starters and

variable speed inverter drives to reduce electricity consumption and starting

loads, can all be part of the package offered by Wright Rain, together with a free site

survey and proposals from one of their specialist irrigation engineers.

Wright Rain pumping control


FENCINGBryce Fencing gets Patent

protection granted for unique post driver design

A unique combination of adjustments on Bryce Suma Profi post drivers has been granted patent protection for the way it enables fence posts to be driven in tight field corners and other awkward situations inaccessible to conventional machines.

The new Quadshift feature moves the mast in an arc behind the tractor; in combination with sideways and backwards mast adjustments it gives the machine unique flexibility.

“It can be difficult positioning the mast just right in a narrow-angle field corner or where trees or other obstructions get in the way,” notes fencing contractor and manufacturer Jock Bryce. “With Quadshift, the operator can move the mast in an

1100mm arc, giving a lot more flexibility to get it just where you want the post to be.”

In common with most fence post drivers, the mast on a Suma Profi can be adjusted in two directions to get it perfectly upright, even when the tractor is standing on a steep slope.

Hydraulic sideshift and backshift can then be used to position the mast precisely without having to make small movements with the tractor. Quadshift adds a new dimension to these adjustments to help position the mast in awkward locations – as recognised by the Intellectual Property Office in granting a patent on the three-way combination.

“I’m really pleased with this latest patent because it


FENCING

JB Corrie fencing

acknowledges the innovative features of the Suma post drivers and emphasises my ownership of the design, both legally and morally,” says Jock Bryce. “I hope anyone tempted to copy the unique combination of features covered by this

patent will respect the intellectual property rights it confers.”

The newly-granted patent (GB2474758) is the latest in a series of successful applications recognising the innovative features that Mr Bryce builds

JB Corrie Boundary FencingSince being founded over eighty years ago, JB Corrie have been manufacturing and supplying fencing and steel fabrications. JB Corrie are specialists in manufacturing with our head office and factory boasting well over 3000 sq. m of floor space. Their knowledgeable staff within the offices and factory are able to process your quotation/order quickly and efficiently. Once processed you have the choice of collecting or having the materials delivered nationally on their fleet of lorries. If your project is further afield JB Corrie can easily export too.

Corries hold a vast amount of stock ready for immediate

delivery and/or collection, including various fencing posts, gates and cladding materials.

Along with these standard products Corries are constantly manufacturing individual items for our customers, including gates, posts, panels and railings. Their capability to produce these items is a refreshing change in today’s market place of European and Asian standard panel and railing systems. Suppliers of these standard systems seem unwilling to customise any of their standard size products for their clients

J B Corries have a different philosophy. If a client require a

Electric fencing for cattle from Rutland Fencing

There are several options for fencing cattle. Depending on the breed of cattle, the number of fence wires can vary from one to six.

Dairy Cattle - Dairy cows are among the easiest animals to contain with electric fences because they are relatively docile and are used to daily human contact. Dairy cattle being strip grazed can usually be contained with a single conductor of poly wire or 12mm poly tape, powered by an energiser of around 0.25 Joules or less provided the voltage on the fence is around 2,000 - 3000volts.

Beef Cattle - To safely contain most beef cattle, you need an energiser that delivers a minimum of 2,000 - 3,000 volts on the fence line. Voltage levels are impacted by vegetation on the fence line, length of fence and type of wire.

Bulls - If normally kept segregated for breeding

purposes, bulls or other aggressive livestock may become highly motivated to escape confinement, especially when nearby cows are in heat. To contain bulls, maintain 3,000 - 4,000 volts on the fence line with an energiser that has a minimum of 1.5 Joules of stored energy. Four to five wires are best. For more aggressive animals, you want the electrified fence to deliver a more intense shock to discourage them from going near the fence again so higher joules would be desirable on long fences.

Size of Cattle - Most cattle are fattened on grass aged between a few months and up to 2 years and are usually reasonably docile so 3 wires would probably suit. The wire spacing depends on the breed / size of the cattle but as a guide, on a permanent / boundary fence, the wires should be spaced at knee height, lower chest and upper chest heights

full bespoke fencing system, a one off gate manufactured to a specific size or just a single post or panel raked and curved they will act on their

request. Meeting a clients individual needs is a ‘standard’ at Corries and utilises their own in-house manufacturing capability.

into the Suma Profi heavy-duty post drivers to make them more productive and easier to use.

“I design and build post drivers from the perspective of someone who’s spent 35 years erecting agricultural fences across difficult hill country in

Scotland,” Mr Bryce explains. “I set out to make them easy to use, highly productive, durable and safe to operate, with parts and service back-up that will keep a machine in good working order for many years.”

POTATOES


POTATOES


PACKAGEDPOTATO &VEGETABLECOOLINGSYSTEMS

WITH OPTIONAL‘AUTO SWIVEL-HEAD AIR DISTRIBUTION

WILL FIT MOST EXISTING SYSTEMSPatent Application No 9320628.2

28 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com28

PROTECTIVE WORKWEARWhen working in all kinds of weather conditions, keeping dry, warm and safe is every farmers concern.

Here we look as some products from two well-known brands.

Great innovations from Protectoplast

Since formation in 1963, Protectoplast has been an innovator in the distribution of outdoor clothing and protective footwear. They were the first company in the UK to offer PVC wellington boots to the agricultural sector as an alternative to the traditional rubber boot.

Their revolutionary NORA range of boots was the first green wellington boot, the first without a supportive lining and they were around half the weight of the old style rubber boots.

This innovation led to the modern Wellington boot as we

know it today. Newer materials are now being used within our Wellington boot range with the use of polyurethane and other materials that not only deliver an even lighter weight but equally effective performance in all aspects of use.

Since then Protectoplast has built a broad ranging clothing and footwear product line which can dress from head to toe the farmer, walker or anybody who enjoys an outdoor lifestyle.

Step out in NORA Border wellington boots with their deep-cleated sole and available now in a selection of colours. Try their Peninsula® range of coats, trousers and socks.

The Flexothane® range of high quality breathable waterproof clothing. The Shirtmaster® range of long and short sleeve shirts in a variety of patterns and colours. The Tough Kit branded Workwear products, from boiler suits to hard wearing trousers and rainwear. The Tough Boots range of footwear and safety

footwear that meets the toughest standards and their wide range of car and truck seat covers under the Tough Covers brand. Truly a comprehensive range of products that can meet most needs.

It is the company’s plant to continue to develop their offering of products and services to customers. Their relocation to

Border Wellingtons from Protectoplast


new and expanded warehouse premises is scheduled for early 2012 and they will be launching exciting new products under all of the key brand names through 2012 and beyond.

Border is Protectoplast’s best selling general purpose PVC Wellington product and has been a fixture in the line since its launch in the early 1990’s. As a value for money boot it is second to none and has a strong reliability record. Available from Infant size 3 to Adult size 14, there is a boot for everyone. In September 2011 a new range of coloured boots in pink, lavender and blue were introduced in Infant, Child and to Adult size 7. These have proved very popular with a wide uptake across the country.

Getting the boot from BucklerBuckler’s benchmark for

dependability, durability, value and service all starts from a blank piece of paper. Onto this the company’s founders poured 70 years of combined experience in footwear and safety boot manufacture, marketing, sales and distribution by listing every product, packaging and service deficiency known to bedevil the industry.

Each deficient item was eliminated and Buckler was launched with a unique guarantee:

If you’re a farmer, chances are that you spend a certain amount of time working in wet or muddy conditions, with the risk of dropping something heavy on your foot or even having your foot stood upon by livestock.

However, there is a boot that combines safety, comfort and water resistance: the Buckbootz neoprene safety boot from Buckler.

Similar in style to wellington boots, Buckbootz are rubber coated on the outside to ensure that they are fully waterproof and washable, yet are bonded to neoprene inside to ensure a very high level of comfort.

BuckflexEveryone now knows that safety boots are essential items. Yet many wearers, particularly those who drive as part of their everyday work, also demand a high level of comfort from their safety boots. Buckler answer is Buckflex, a dealer boot range with a built in shoe horn!

A range of safety boots which allows the top of the boot to flex with the angle of the leg for increased comfort and makes the boots easier to put on and take off.

This means greatly improved comfort without compromising safety in any way.• easy on/easy off

• no heel ‘dig’ when driving/operating foot controls.

• ensures full ankle support and close comfort fit for the lifetime of the boots.Buckbootz also feature

steel toecaps and midsoles for industrial-strength safety, which also includes resistance to heat, oil and chemicals.

STOCKMAN from Protectoplast Buckflex for easy fitting from Buckler Boots Buckbootz style from Buckler Boots

Zipped Boilersuit from Protectoplast

PROTECTIVE WORKWEAR

LIVESTOCK

28 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com30

LIVESTOCK


LIVESTOCK


For your nearest dealer contact us:Office Tel: 01482 868800

email: [email protected]: www.fostersalescompany.co.uk

Foster's ROTARY

SLASHERS SUPER SCRUB CUTTERS

Ideal for:

GG2000 Super Scrubcutter fitted with cutting chains and

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THE VET


Berthoud has long been recognised for innovation, due in part to their in-house design and engineering facilities for major components including on-board electronics and regulators.

Their new EC Tronic control panel is available on Tenor and Raptor sprayers, replacing the DP Tronic on these models.

The new system simultaneously displays key information on a large, back-lit colour screen, including volume/Ha, litres applied and pressure, area treated, mix remaining in tank and work speeds. In fact everything the operator needs to see to ensure efficient spray application.

Integrated with the sprayer’s standard functions, EC Tronic

Berthoud launch E-control packagealso incorporates boom control and sprayer set up . EC Tronic stores key data for total tracebility.

An optional E-Tech package adds auto guidance, GPS controlled auto boom shut off and variable rate application. A weather station facility and cameras will be available in the near future.

EC Tronic is offered with an exclusive E-Pilot wireless and ergonomic designed joystick. This 15 function unit gives total control of all the sprayer’s hydraulic functions, general and sequential spray opening / closing within a 10m+ range from the EC Tronic controller.

“We are very excited about this new E-Controller” says Martin Shackcloth of Berthoud.

“It once more underlines Berthoud’s technical innovation with a product that will meet the needs of today’s farmers and

contractors… and tomorrow’s.”A demonstration DVD can

be viewed on the Berthoud.co.uk web site.

A smart collar which closely monitors the health of cows and sends the results back to farmers using mobile phone technology is being developed as part of a three-year-project co-funded by the Technology Strategy Board.

The Technology Strategy Board has given a substantial grant towards the £1.4 million project to develop the technology, which could make huge savings for farmers. It is the result of a joint project between The University of Strathclyde, Morrisons, Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), NMR, Harbro, Well Cow and Embedded Technology Solutions (a Strathclyde spin-out company) – who are developing the technology.

The equipment involves each cow wearing an intelligent collar that picks up on subtle movements with the same sensor used in Wii gaming and generates a continuous record of their activity patterns.

Results will then be sent back using a range of wireless technologies like 3G, with a full update accessible via a hub or even through a mobile phone. It is envisaged that farmers can set up alerts for their phone to receive a text when a cow is in distress, coming in to heat or entering labour.

Wireless technology means that the signal from the cow’s collar would be accessible from anywhere, so farmers can check on their cattle’s status using their phone wherever they are.

It will provide vital improvements in the important areas of cow illness and streamline the insemination process.

By accurately sensing the cow’s head positions in three dimensions, the collar will be able to detect if the animal’s hind legs begin to lower – one of the initial signs of illness.

The sensor on the collar will also detect when a cow is coming into heat and alert the farmer so he can optimise the process of insemination, increasing cow pregnancy rates. Without this technology, close monitoring of each cow, which can take hours every day, is required to look for the signs of heat.With both efficient insemination and cow health

crucial for farm profitability – the development could help to sustain the financial future of farms.

The collar technology is now entering its next phase thanks to a grant from the Technology Strategy Board and a commitment by Morrisons to provide its farm at Dumfries House in Scotland for the testing of the technology.

Addressing animal health and welfare challenges and improving animal performance monitoring are vital pieces of the food security jigsaw. The technologies developed through this project have the potential to benefit farming communities in the UK and around the world and we wish the partners every success.

‘TEXTING COW’ TECHNOLOGY OFFERS BIG BOOST FOR FARMERS

FINANCE


FINANCE


FINANCE


FUTUREfarmer

A budding farmer from the Borders is blossoming as an agricultural trainee on The Co-operative Farms’ apprenticeship scheme.

Liam Logan, from Berwick-upon-Tweed, was unemployed for two years before securing the two-year placement working for Britain’s largest farmer at its Whitsome Hill Farm in Duns, Berwickshire, which is managed by Co-operative Farms.

The 21-year-old is ploughing ahead with his academic studies and hands-on training on the apprenticeship scheme, which is designed to help The Co-

CO-OPERATIVE FARMS’ APPRENTICE BLOSSOMS AS A FARMER OF THE FUTURE

operative Farms find and train the farming talent of the future.

After almost a year on the scheme Liam, who has nine GCSEs and spent several summers working on farms during his school holidays, is displaying a natural aptitude for agriculture, both in the field and the classroom.

“When I started the scheme I had been unemployed for quite a while and before that I worked in shops and factories but that was a bit boring, so when I saw the opportunity for the apprenticeship and a career in farming I jumped at the chance.

New staff are vital to a successful business. In the past 24 months ADAS has recruited 25 new graduates through their Graduate Scheme to areas including land management, GIS, modelling, sustainability, waste, agriculture, farming systems, livestock, crop physiology, soils and hydrology

Steven Tompkins, a Farming Systems Graduate, comments: “The Graduate Scheme has allowed me to get fully

involved in the day to day roles and responsibilities of being an ADAS consultant. Those I work with have provided me with a great platform for learning and personal development through giving me opportunities to develop and show my capability”.

“We will continue to invest in new staff and we plan to recruit a further ten new graduates this year as this is key to ensuring our business grows and prospers.”

ADAS USES NEW APPROACH TO ATTRACT NEW RECRUITS


The team behind the Future Farmer Award has begun the search for the very best in Scottish agriculture with the launch of the 2012 award. The accolade looks to reward a farmer, young or old,

male or female, livestock or arable for their outstanding contribution to the industry.

The Future Farmer Award is an initiative funded by the Elizabeth Murray Trust and supported by NFU Scotland.

FUTURE FARMER AWARD 2012 SEARCHES FOR OUTSTANDING FARMER

Each year a trailblazing Scottish farmer is given £4,000 and a package of practical support to help them promote their ideas to other farmers and land managers.

MACHINERY


2011 Manitou MLT634T120LSU

2010 Manitou MLT634T120LSUPS

2010 Manitou MLT627T




2007 Manitou MLT940LT120LSU




2005 Manitou MLA628T120LSUPS, pivot steer


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Tel: 01569 763247Email: [email protected]

MACHINERY


DEALERS IN SCOTLAND

THOMAS CAIRNIEDUMFRIES : 01387 710285

JT CORMACKCAITHNESS : 01955 611498

THOMAS MURRAY DUNDONALD : 01563 850592

JMS EQUIPMENTTURRIFF : 01888 563188

MARRS OF METHLICKMETHLICK : 01651 806910

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MACHINERY


Ness Plant, Forfar Road, Brechin DD9 6RJTel 01356 626113 Fax 01356 625577

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Email: [email protected] us online today at www.nessplant.co.uk

Please contact one of our available salesmen for further details:Branch Manager:Mike Ritchie07595 207355 Sales:Graeme Gauld 07894 612036 Colin Duncan 07912 513109 Parts:Steven Henry 07590 452551Service Manager: Ronnie Davies07886 565164

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WILKS BROTHERSMain dealers in Perthshirefor DEUTZ FAHR Tractors

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The Agrotron M Series

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www.dal-bo.com

PEO

PLE

ON

THE

MO

VE Dr. Ulrich Hüllmann Dr. Ulrich Hüllmann has become Segment President of GEA Farm Technologies, replacing Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dirk Hejnal. Dr. Hüllmann joined GEA Group 10 years ago and in 2008 became Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of GEA Farm Technologies. His appointment as Segment President is part of a commitment to ensure continuity in the business strategy.

Richard ParishOPICO has expanded its field service team with the appointment of Richard Parish as technical support engineer and product demonstrator for the north of England and Scotland. Richard will be supporting dealers and providing on-farm demonstrations of all the HE-VA, OPICO and Maschio ranges of machinery.

Graeme LoganThe new representative for the Bunn fertiliser group in Scotland is an Ayrshire man, Graeme Logan. As Wholesale sales manager, Graeme will be presenting Bunn’s wide-range of grass and arable fertilisers to merchants and agents across Scotland. He will be working closely with Bunn subsidiaries W J Reid in Montrose and Fertiliser Solutions Ltd in Middlesbrough.

Fiona LindsayCeva Animal Health has appointed a new Large Animal Territory Manager for Scotland. Fiona Lindsay brings to the company extensive pharmaceutical and animal nutrition sales expertise. Fiona previously worked as an area sales manager for an animal feed company. She has had a life-long interest in horses, rides regularly and is a qualified riding instructor. Based in Perth, she lives with her two young sons and her German Pointer dog.


Documents

Farming Scotland Magazine (March-April 2012)