www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

Orion Farming Group

ClassifiedSection

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Bovine Tuberculosis

FMC Acquire DuPont’s Herbicide and Insecticide Portfolio

February 2018

Inserts: Green Farm Seeds, Ind-Tech, John Nicholls, Meet the Orion Team

Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Orion Farming Group3 St John’s Yard, Fyfield, Nr Abingdon, Oxon, OX13 5LNOrion Office: 01865 390011 www.ofg.org.uk www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be

taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Classified SectionExcavator (13T) and Tree Shear available for hire, with driver. Oxford/Wheatley area

For all: Ground works, Ditching, Tree limb reduction & Hedging

Contact: David Keene - Call: 07831 874 438 - Email: david@davidkeene.co.uk

For more than a century, FMC Corporation has served the global agricultural, industrial and consumer markets with innovative solutions and quality products.

In the UK, FMC is based in Deeside and is a leading supplier of both speciality, crop protection and foliar nutrition products, including a wide range of advanced micronutrients, soluble fertilisers and adjuvants to UK agriculture.

Last November, FMC acquired a significant proportion of DuPont’s Crop Protection business including the well-known cereal sulfonyl-urea (SU) herbicides, sugar beet herbicides and DuPont’s innovative insecticide portfolio. In addition, FMC have also acquired DuPont’s crop protection research and development capability, including an extensive pipeline of new and exciting products.

The company’s cereal SU herbicides, including brands such as Ally ® Max SX ® will continue to be produced at the same manufacturing facilities located in the Alsace, France, ensuring product continuity, consistency and quality for the end user. Customers will also continue to benefit from 30+ years of experience and product knowledge as key members from DuPont’s technical, regulatory and sales departments have moved across to the FMC Corporation.

FMC’s philosophy, as always, will remain on ensuring high product quality and customer support.

Article by: FMC

Article by: Max Wood, BVM.BVS.MRCVS

TB continues to be a hot topic at the moment. Recently announced changes to the testing regime within much of our area, and several new outbreaks, make it a very real concern.

It is prudent to pinpoint where there may be weaknesses in biosecurity; take a moment to review your procedures with these 5 principles in mind:

• RESTRICT contact between cattle and badgers (including their setts and latrines)

• MANAGE cattle feed and water to minimise access of badgers

• STOP infected cattle entering the herd

• REDUCE risk from neighbouring herds

• MINIMISE infection from manure

As vets, we are frequently faced with the difficult task of breaking the bad news, but as part of our holistic approach to farm animal care we look to explore options and employ strategies that will help minimise the impact the disease has on your farm business.

What are your options when you go down with TB?1) Selling direct to slaughter. This must be done under

license, readily obtained from APHA.

2) Selling to an Approved Finishing Unit (AFU). Cattle sourced from restricted herds must have had a clear test within 90 days preceding their movement, with the exception of calves under six weeks old.

3) Set up your own AFU. There are a number of conditions to be met before a license is granted, but it means that animals would not need testing on the 6 monthly regime. It is MUCH easier to set up an AFU without being under restriction, so expediency would be key if you were thinking along those lines, as TB encroaches ever nearer.

It is challenging to operate under movement restrictions and to factor in numerous tests, but there are possibilities which make business operations feasible. We have a large, dedicated farm vet team at Larkmead who understand the difficultiescurrently facing the local farming community. We adopt a proactive attitude towards problems, including TB, and work alongside our clients to deliver practical solutions.

If we can be of assistance to your livestock business, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Larkmead Farm Vets: 01491 651 479. www.larkmead.co.uk

Bovine Tuberculosis

FMC Acquire DuPont’s Herbicide and Insecticide Portfolio

February 2018

Inserts: Green Farm Seeds, Ind-Tech, John Nicholls, Meet the Orion Team

Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Orion Farming Group3 St John’s Yard, Fyfield, Nr Abingdon, Oxon, OX13 5LNOrion Office: 01865 390011 www.ofg.org.uk www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be

taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Classified SectionExcavator (13T) and Tree Shear available for hire, with driver. Oxford/Wheatley area

For all: Ground works, Ditching, Tree limb reduction & Hedging

Contact: David Keene - Call: 07831 874 438 - Email: david@davidkeene.co.uk

For more than a century, FMC Corporation has served the global agricultural, industrial and consumer markets with innovative solutions and quality products.

In the UK, FMC is based in Deeside and is a leading supplier of both speciality, crop protection and foliar nutrition products, including a wide range of advanced micronutrients, soluble fertilisers and adjuvants to UK agriculture.

Last November, FMC acquired a significant proportion of DuPont’s Crop Protection business including the well-known cereal sulfonyl-urea (SU) herbicides, sugar beet herbicides and DuPont’s innovative insecticide portfolio. In addition, FMC have also acquired DuPont’s crop protection research and development capability, including an extensive pipeline of new and exciting products.

The company’s cereal SU herbicides, including brands such as Ally ® Max SX ® will continue to be produced at the same manufacturing facilities located in the Alsace, France, ensuring product continuity, consistency and quality for the end user. Customers will also continue to benefit from 30+ years of experience and product knowledge as key members from DuPont’s technical, regulatory and sales departments have moved across to the FMC Corporation.

FMC’s philosophy, as always, will remain on ensuring high product quality and customer support.

Article by: FMC

Article by: Max Wood, BVM.BVS.MRCVS

TB continues to be a hot topic at the moment. Recently announced changes to the testing regime within much of our area, and several new outbreaks, make it a very real concern.

It is prudent to pinpoint where there may be weaknesses in biosecurity; take a moment to review your procedures with these 5 principles in mind:

• RESTRICT contact between cattle and badgers (including their setts and latrines)

• MANAGE cattle feed and water to minimise access of badgers

• STOP infected cattle entering the herd

• REDUCE risk from neighbouring herds

• MINIMISE infection from manure

As vets, we are frequently faced with the difficult task of breaking the bad news, but as part of our holistic approach to farm animal care we look to explore options and employ strategies that will help minimise the impact the disease has on your farm business.

What are your options when you go down with TB?1) Selling direct to slaughter. This must be done under

license, readily obtained from APHA.

2) Selling to an Approved Finishing Unit (AFU). Cattle sourced from restricted herds must have had a clear test within 90 days preceding their movement, with the exception of calves under six weeks old.

3) Set up your own AFU. There are a number of conditions to be met before a license is granted, but it means that animals would not need testing on the 6 monthly regime. It is MUCH easier to set up an AFU without being under restriction, so expediency would be key if you were thinking along those lines, as TB encroaches ever nearer.

It is challenging to operate under movement restrictions and to factor in numerous tests, but there are possibilities which make business operations feasible. We have a large, dedicated farm vet team at Larkmead who understand the difficultiescurrently facing the local farming community. We adopt a proactive attitude towards problems, including TB, and work alongside our clients to deliver practical solutions.

If we can be of assistance to your livestock business, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Larkmead Farm Vets: 01491 651 479. www.larkmead.co.uk

February 2018

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Feed & Livestock Section

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

Chems Update: Chlorothalonil - It is advisable, with shortage predicted, to place your order for BRAVO/ROVER/CHLOROTHALONIL with the Office as soon as you are aware of your volume required. We are speaking with Distribution and should have deferred terms available for earlier deliveries of product.

IBC’S - Various Micro-nutrient IBC’s available – delivery February payment July. Contact Shelley in the Orion office for details.

Shelley Dancy, Chemical Manager, 01865 393 135 Sprayers, Water, Application & TipsKirtlington Golf Club, Kirtlington, Oxon, OX5 3JY14th February 2018 – 9.30am or 1.30pm(lunch provided between 12.15-1.15pm)£40 inc. VAT for NRoSO members

Providing update training for operators, this interactive event focuses on how to avoid things going wrong and what “best practice” means on the farm. Covering:

Current Issues: national news items and specific local issues for geographical area or crop production system.Water Protection: how pesticides get into water, theimpact, and what can be done to minimise risks.Application: preventing drift, nozzles & techniques.Technology: Top Tips from Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year finalists (FSOOTY), and a look at closed transfer systems for pesticides.

Delegates receive a Work Book incorporating relevant best practice guides and Certificate of attendance. This workshop will attract 10 CPD points for National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) members and 4 CPD points for BASIS members.

Please call: Quentin Ham on 07551 135 659,or email: quentin.ham@agrovista.co.uk

Game FeedSuppliers have been invited to tender for the 2018 Group Game Feed business. Further details will be published in the March edition of the Orion News.

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Members Section Feed & Livestock

BolusesPrices have been requested from suppliers for worming boluses, including Panacur, the Autoworm range and the Cydectin LA injection. All Group prices will be held at the office so please contact Joe for details of the most competitive supplier. Please note; price discounts apply depending on the number of boluses purchased.

Compound FeedTender invitations have been sent to Group suppliers for the 2018-2019compound year. The Feed & Livestock Committee will assess all submitted tenders and notify Members by April of the decision.

NRoSO Course (run by: Agrovista)

On-Line Accounting Facilities: www.ofg.org.ukElectronic Accounting facilities have been available for several months and Members are using to view their monthly statement/invoices, and place fuel orders. Stage 1 is now complete but of course no IT project would be complete without some teething issues. Every Member should now be able to log-in successfully, but please do not hesitate to contact the office if you need a reminder of your log-in credentials.

We are now working with our IT providers to improve the website and speed up access.

A reminder that by accessing the Members’ section of the website, you can:

• Place a fuel order• View your order history• View/download your latest Orion statement and associated invoices (plus archive)• Request account changes• Update your address and delivery details (subject to verification)

We are intending to cease the monthly mailings (paper statements and invoices) in the next few months, in order to deliver savings in terms of time and money, as postage is one of the largest costs to the Group, not discounting the time it takes to fill the envelopes.

Members will be able to opt into the mailings and still receive everything by post, but those choosing the electronic route will receive a discount on their monthly membership fee. Members will be contacted in advance to confirm your preferred option (and email address).

We would welcome any feedback and/or suggestions that we can consider as we look to further develop the system.

Forage and Harvest UpdateOrder forms will be sent to you with your March account and should be returned to Joe or Rachel. If you have any queries regarding Forage and Harvest please do not hesitate to contact us.

Joe Cobb, Feed & Livestock Manager – 01865 393 139Rachel Hayden – 01865 393 133

Quick UpdatesMeet the Orion TeamEnclosed with this issue is an updated list of Orion team members, with contact numbers and email addresses.

Orion’s AGM 2018This year’s AGM planning is under way and we’re looking to secure a date in April. Further details will follow in our March newsletter.

Vitality Health PHI RenewalsThose Members who have Private Health Insurance provided by VitalityHealth will note that renewal premiums (1st March 2018 onwards) are shown on this month’s statement. Unless notified by Monday 19th February 2018, then individual policies will automatically be renewed.

If Members wish to discuss any aspect of this, then please contact Barry Cooper, Independent Healthcare Broker, direct on 01932 566 456 /07778 518 244 or speak to John Norton in the Orion office (01865 393 131). John can also request quotes for any Members interested in PHI from VitalityHealth, or indeed from the Group’s other provider, BUPA.

Larkmead VetsLivestock Workshops

Visit the Larkmead Vets website for details of upcoming workshops:

Practical Calving (28th February) Lambing (9th March)

www.larkmead.co.uk/farm/upcoming-events

Chems Update: Chlorothalonil - It is advisable, with shortage predicted, to place your order for BRAVO/ROVER/CHLOROTHALONIL with the Office as soon as you are aware of your volume required. We are speaking with Distribution and should have deferred terms available for earlier deliveries of product.

IBC’S - Various Micro-nutrient IBC’s available – delivery February payment July. Contact Shelley in the Orion office for details.

Shelley Dancy, Chemical Manager, 01865 393 135 Sprayers, Water, Application & TipsKirtlington Golf Club, Kirtlington, Oxon, OX5 3JY14th February 2018 – 9.30am or 1.30pm(lunch provided between 12.15-1.15pm)£40 inc. VAT for NRoSO members

Providing update training for operators, this interactive event focuses on how to avoid things going wrong and what “best practice” means on the farm. Covering:

Current Issues: national news items and specific local issues for geographical area or crop production system.Water Protection: how pesticides get into water, theimpact, and what can be done to minimise risks.Application: preventing drift, nozzles & techniques.Technology: Top Tips from Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year finalists (FSOOTY), and a look at closed transfer systems for pesticides.

Delegates receive a Work Book incorporating relevant best practice guides and Certificate of attendance. This workshop will attract 10 CPD points for National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) members and 4 CPD points for BASIS members.

Please call: Quentin Ham on 07551 135 659,or email: quentin.ham@agrovista.co.uk

Game FeedSuppliers have been invited to tender for the 2018 Group Game Feed business. Further details will be published in the March edition of the Orion News.

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Members Section Feed & Livestock

BolusesPrices have been requested from suppliers for worming boluses, including Panacur, the Autoworm range and the Cydectin LA injection. All Group prices will be held at the office so please contact Joe for details of the most competitive supplier. Please note; price discounts apply depending on the number of boluses purchased.

Compound FeedTender invitations have been sent to Group suppliers for the 2018-2019compound year. The Feed & Livestock Committee will assess all submitted tenders and notify Members by April of the decision.

NRoSO Course (run by: Agrovista)

On-Line Accounting Facilities: www.ofg.org.ukElectronic Accounting facilities have been available for several months and Members are using to view their monthly statement/invoices, and place fuel orders. Stage 1 is now complete but of course no IT project would be complete without some teething issues. Every Member should now be able to log-in successfully, but please do not hesitate to contact the office if you need a reminder of your log-in credentials.

We are now working with our IT providers to improve the website and speed up access.

A reminder that by accessing the Members’ section of the website, you can:

• Place a fuel order• View your order history• View/download your latest Orion statement and associated invoices (plus archive)• Request account changes• Update your address and delivery details (subject to verification)

We are intending to cease the monthly mailings (paper statements and invoices) in the next few months, in order to deliver savings in terms of time and money, as postage is one of the largest costs to the Group, not discounting the time it takes to fill the envelopes.

Members will be able to opt into the mailings and still receive everything by post, but those choosing the electronic route will receive a discount on their monthly membership fee. Members will be contacted in advance to confirm your preferred option (and email address).

We would welcome any feedback and/or suggestions that we can consider as we look to further develop the system.

Forage and Harvest UpdateOrder forms will be sent to you with your March account and should be returned to Joe or Rachel. If you have any queries regarding Forage and Harvest please do not hesitate to contact us.

Joe Cobb, Feed & Livestock Manager – 01865 393 139Rachel Hayden – 01865 393 133

Quick UpdatesMeet the Orion TeamEnclosed with this issue is an updated list of Orion team members, with contact numbers and email addresses.

Orion’s AGM 2018This year’s AGM planning is under way and we’re looking to secure a date in April. Further details will follow in our March newsletter.

Vitality Health PHI RenewalsThose Members who have Private Health Insurance provided by VitalityHealth will note that renewal premiums (1st March 2018 onwards) are shown on this month’s statement. Unless notified by Monday 19th February 2018, then individual policies will automatically be renewed.

If Members wish to discuss any aspect of this, then please contact Barry Cooper, Independent Healthcare Broker, direct on 01932 566 456 /07778 518 244 or speak to John Norton in the Orion office (01865 393 131). John can also request quotes for any Members interested in PHI from VitalityHealth, or indeed from the Group’s other provider, BUPA.

Larkmead VetsLivestock Workshops

Visit the Larkmead Vets website for details of upcoming workshops:

Practical Calving (28th February) Lambing (9th March)

www.larkmead.co.uk/farm/upcoming-events

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Members Section

Quick Updates

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

www.ofg.org.uk

Feed & Livestock Section

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

Chems Update: Chlorothalonil - It is advisable, with shortage predicted, to place your order for BRAVO/ROVER/CHLOROTHALONIL with the Office as soon as you are aware of your volume required. We are speaking with Distribution and should have deferred terms available for earlier deliveries of product.

IBC’S - Various Micro-nutrient IBC’s available – delivery February payment July. Contact Shelley in the Orion office for details.

Shelley Dancy, Chemical Manager, 01865 393 135 Sprayers, Water, Application & TipsKirtlington Golf Club, Kirtlington, Oxon, OX5 3JY14th February 2018 – 9.30am or 1.30pm(lunch provided between 12.15-1.15pm)£40 inc. VAT for NRoSO members

Providing update training for operators, this interactive event focuses on how to avoid things going wrong and what “best practice” means on the farm. Covering:

Current Issues: national news items and specific local issues for geographical area or crop production system.Water Protection: how pesticides get into water, theimpact, and what can be done to minimise risks.Application: preventing drift, nozzles & techniques.Technology: Top Tips from Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year finalists (FSOOTY), and a look at closed transfer systems for pesticides.

Delegates receive a Work Book incorporating relevant best practice guides and Certificate of attendance. This workshop will attract 10 CPD points for National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) members and 4 CPD points for BASIS members.

Please call: Quentin Ham on 07551 135 659,or email: quentin.ham@agrovista.co.uk

Game FeedSuppliers have been invited to tender for the 2018 Group Game Feed business. Further details will be published in the March edition of the Orion News.

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Members Section Feed & Livestock

BolusesPrices have been requested from suppliers for worming boluses, including Panacur, the Autoworm range and the Cydectin LA injection. All Group prices will be held at the office so please contact Joe for details of the most competitive supplier. Please note; price discounts apply depending on the number of boluses purchased.

Compound FeedTender invitations have been sent to Group suppliers for the 2018-2019compound year. The Feed & Livestock Committee will assess all submitted tenders and notify Members by April of the decision.

NRoSO Course (run by: Agrovista)

On-Line Accounting Facilities: www.ofg.org.ukElectronic Accounting facilities have been available for several months and Members are using to view their monthly statement/invoices, and place fuel orders. Stage 1 is now complete but of course no IT project would be complete without some teething issues. Every Member should now be able to log-in successfully, but please do not hesitate to contact the office if you need a reminder of your log-in credentials.

We are now working with our IT providers to improve the website and speed up access.

A reminder that by accessing the Members’ section of the website, you can:

• Place a fuel order• View your order history• View/download your latest Orion statement and associated invoices (plus archive)• Request account changes• Update your address and delivery details (subject to verification)

We are intending to cease the monthly mailings (paper statements and invoices) in the next few months, in order to deliver savings in terms of time and money, as postage is one of the largest costs to the Group, not discounting the time it takes to fill the envelopes.

Members will be able to opt into the mailings and still receive everything by post, but those choosing the electronic route will receive a discount on their monthly membership fee. Members will be contacted in advance to confirm your preferred option (and email address).

We would welcome any feedback and/or suggestions that we can consider as we look to further develop the system.

Forage and Harvest UpdateOrder forms will be sent to you with your March account and should be returned to Joe or Rachel. If you have any queries regarding Forage and Harvest please do not hesitate to contact us.

Joe Cobb, Feed & Livestock Manager – 01865 393 139Rachel Hayden – 01865 393 133

Quick UpdatesMeet the Orion TeamEnclosed with this issue is an updated list of Orion team members, with contact numbers and email addresses.

Orion’s AGM 2018This year’s AGM planning is under way and we’re looking to secure a date in April. Further details will follow in our March newsletter.

Vitality Health PHI RenewalsThose Members who have Private Health Insurance provided by VitalityHealth will note that renewal premiums (1st March 2018 onwards) are shown on this month’s statement. Unless notified by Monday 19th February 2018, then individual policies will automatically be renewed.

If Members wish to discuss any aspect of this, then please contact Barry Cooper, Independent Healthcare Broker, direct on 01932 566 456 /07778 518 244 or speak to John Norton in the Orion office (01865 393 131). John can also request quotes for any Members interested in PHI from VitalityHealth, or indeed from the Group’s other provider, BUPA.

Larkmead VetsLivestock Workshops

Visit the Larkmead Vets website for details of upcoming workshops:

Practical Calving (28th February) Lambing (9th March)

www.larkmead.co.uk/farm/upcoming-events

Chems Update: Chlorothalonil - It is advisable, with shortage predicted, to place your order for BRAVO/ROVER/CHLOROTHALONIL with the Office as soon as you are aware of your volume required. We are speaking with Distribution and should have deferred terms available for earlier deliveries of product.

IBC’S - Various Micro-nutrient IBC’s available – delivery February payment July. Contact Shelley in the Orion office for details.

Shelley Dancy, Chemical Manager, 01865 393 135 Sprayers, Water, Application & TipsKirtlington Golf Club, Kirtlington, Oxon, OX5 3JY14th February 2018 – 9.30am or 1.30pm(lunch provided between 12.15-1.15pm)£40 inc. VAT for NRoSO members

Providing update training for operators, this interactive event focuses on how to avoid things going wrong and what “best practice” means on the farm. Covering:

Current Issues: national news items and specific local issues for geographical area or crop production system.Water Protection: how pesticides get into water, theimpact, and what can be done to minimise risks.Application: preventing drift, nozzles & techniques.Technology: Top Tips from Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year finalists (FSOOTY), and a look at closed transfer systems for pesticides.

Delegates receive a Work Book incorporating relevant best practice guides and Certificate of attendance. This workshop will attract 10 CPD points for National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) members and 4 CPD points for BASIS members.

Please call: Quentin Ham on 07551 135 659,or email: quentin.ham@agrovista.co.uk

Game FeedSuppliers have been invited to tender for the 2018 Group Game Feed business. Further details will be published in the March edition of the Orion News.

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Members Section Feed & Livestock

BolusesPrices have been requested from suppliers for worming boluses, including Panacur, the Autoworm range and the Cydectin LA injection. All Group prices will be held at the office so please contact Joe for details of the most competitive supplier. Please note; price discounts apply depending on the number of boluses purchased.

Compound FeedTender invitations have been sent to Group suppliers for the 2018-2019compound year. The Feed & Livestock Committee will assess all submitted tenders and notify Members by April of the decision.

NRoSO Course (run by: Agrovista)

On-Line Accounting Facilities: www.ofg.org.ukElectronic Accounting facilities have been available for several months and Members are using to view their monthly statement/invoices, and place fuel orders. Stage 1 is now complete but of course no IT project would be complete without some teething issues. Every Member should now be able to log-in successfully, but please do not hesitate to contact the office if you need a reminder of your log-in credentials.

We are now working with our IT providers to improve the website and speed up access.

A reminder that by accessing the Members’ section of the website, you can:

• Place a fuel order• View your order history• View/download your latest Orion statement and associated invoices (plus archive)• Request account changes• Update your address and delivery details (subject to verification)

We are intending to cease the monthly mailings (paper statements and invoices) in the next few months, in order to deliver savings in terms of time and money, as postage is one of the largest costs to the Group, not discounting the time it takes to fill the envelopes.

Members will be able to opt into the mailings and still receive everything by post, but those choosing the electronic route will receive a discount on their monthly membership fee. Members will be contacted in advance to confirm your preferred option (and email address).

We would welcome any feedback and/or suggestions that we can consider as we look to further develop the system.

Forage and Harvest UpdateOrder forms will be sent to you with your March account and should be returned to Joe or Rachel. If you have any queries regarding Forage and Harvest please do not hesitate to contact us.

Joe Cobb, Feed & Livestock Manager – 01865 393 139Rachel Hayden – 01865 393 133

Quick UpdatesMeet the Orion TeamEnclosed with this issue is an updated list of Orion team members, with contact numbers and email addresses.

Orion’s AGM 2018This year’s AGM planning is under way and we’re looking to secure a date in April. Further details will follow in our March newsletter.

Vitality Health PHI RenewalsThose Members who have Private Health Insurance provided by VitalityHealth will note that renewal premiums (1st March 2018 onwards) are shown on this month’s statement. Unless notified by Monday 19th February 2018, then individual policies will automatically be renewed.

If Members wish to discuss any aspect of this, then please contact Barry Cooper, Independent Healthcare Broker, direct on 01932 566 456 /07778 518 244 or speak to John Norton in the Orion office (01865 393 131). John can also request quotes for any Members interested in PHI from VitalityHealth, or indeed from the Group’s other provider, BUPA.

Larkmead VetsLivestock Workshops

Visit the Larkmead Vets website for details of upcoming workshops:

Practical Calving (28th February) Lambing (9th March)

www.larkmead.co.uk/farm/upcoming-events

www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group

Orion Farming Group

ClassifiedSection

*Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Bovine Tuberculosis

FMC Acquire DuPont’s Herbicide and Insecticide Portfolio

February 2018

Inserts: Green Farm Seeds, Ind-Tech, John Nicholls, Meet the Orion Team

Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Orion Farming Group3 St John’s Yard, Fyfield, Nr Abingdon, Oxon, OX13 5LNOrion Office: 01865 390011 www.ofg.org.uk www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be

taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Classified SectionExcavator (13T) and Tree Shear available for hire, with driver. Oxford/Wheatley area

For all: Ground works, Ditching, Tree limb reduction & Hedging

Contact: David Keene - Call: 07831 874 438 - Email: david@davidkeene.co.uk

For more than a century, FMC Corporation has served the global agricultural, industrial and consumer markets with innovative solutions and quality products.

In the UK, FMC is based in Deeside and is a leading supplier of both speciality, crop protection and foliar nutrition products, including a wide range of advanced micronutrients, soluble fertilisers and adjuvants to UK agriculture.

Last November, FMC acquired a significant proportion of DuPont’s Crop Protection business including the well-known cereal sulfonyl-urea (SU) herbicides, sugar beet herbicides and DuPont’s innovative insecticide portfolio. In addition, FMC have also acquired DuPont’s crop protection research and development capability, including an extensive pipeline of new and exciting products.

The company’s cereal SU herbicides, including brands such as Ally ® Max SX ® will continue to be produced at the same manufacturing facilities located in the Alsace, France, ensuring product continuity, consistency and quality for the end user. Customers will also continue to benefit from 30+ years of experience and product knowledge as key members from DuPont’s technical, regulatory and sales departments have moved across to the FMC Corporation.

FMC’s philosophy, as always, will remain on ensuring high product quality and customer support.

Article by: FMC

Article by: Max Wood, BVM.BVS.MRCVS

TB continues to be a hot topic at the moment. Recently announced changes to the testing regime within much of our area, and several new outbreaks, make it a very real concern.

It is prudent to pinpoint where there may be weaknesses in biosecurity; take a moment to review your procedures with these 5 principles in mind:

• RESTRICT contact between cattle and badgers (including their setts and latrines)

• MANAGE cattle feed and water to minimise access of badgers

• STOP infected cattle entering the herd

• REDUCE risk from neighbouring herds

• MINIMISE infection from manure

As vets, we are frequently faced with the difficult task of breaking the bad news, but as part of our holistic approach to farm animal care we look to explore options and employ strategies that will help minimise the impact the disease has on your farm business.

What are your options when you go down with TB?1) Selling direct to slaughter. This must be done under

license, readily obtained from APHA.

2) Selling to an Approved Finishing Unit (AFU). Cattle sourced from restricted herds must have had a clear test within 90 days preceding their movement, with the exception of calves under six weeks old.

3) Set up your own AFU. There are a number of conditions to be met before a license is granted, but it means that animals would not need testing on the 6 monthly regime. It is MUCH easier to set up an AFU without being under restriction, so expediency would be key if you were thinking along those lines, as TB encroaches ever nearer.

It is challenging to operate under movement restrictions and to factor in numerous tests, but there are possibilities which make business operations feasible. We have a large, dedicated farm vet team at Larkmead who understand the difficultiescurrently facing the local farming community. We adopt a proactive attitude towards problems, including TB, and work alongside our clients to deliver practical solutions.

If we can be of assistance to your livestock business, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Larkmead Farm Vets: 01491 651 479. www.larkmead.co.uk

Bovine Tuberculosis

FMC Acquire DuPont’s Herbicide and Insecticide Portfolio

February 2018

Inserts: Green Farm Seeds, Ind-Tech, John Nicholls, Meet the Orion Team

Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be taken as advice or recommendation from the Orion Farming Group.

Orion Farming Group3 St John’s Yard, Fyfield, Nr Abingdon, Oxon, OX13 5LNOrion Office: 01865 390011 www.ofg.org.uk www.ofg.org.uk *Information within articles written by specific suppliers should in no way be

taken as advice or recommendation form the Orion Farming Groupwww.ofg.org.uk

Classified SectionExcavator (13T) and Tree Shear available for hire, with driver. Oxford/Wheatley area

For all: Ground works, Ditching, Tree limb reduction & Hedging

Contact: David Keene - Call: 07831 874 438 - Email: david@davidkeene.co.uk

For more than a century, FMC Corporation has served the global agricultural, industrial and consumer markets with innovative solutions and quality products.

In the UK, FMC is based in Deeside and is a leading supplier of both speciality, crop protection and foliar nutrition products, including a wide range of advanced micronutrients, soluble fertilisers and adjuvants to UK agriculture.

Last November, FMC acquired a significant proportion of DuPont’s Crop Protection business including the well-known cereal sulfonyl-urea (SU) herbicides, sugar beet herbicides and DuPont’s innovative insecticide portfolio. In addition, FMC have also acquired DuPont’s crop protection research and development capability, including an extensive pipeline of new and exciting products.

The company’s cereal SU herbicides, including brands such as Ally ® Max SX ® will continue to be produced at the same manufacturing facilities located in the Alsace, France, ensuring product continuity, consistency and quality for the end user. Customers will also continue to benefit from 30+ years of experience and product knowledge as key members from DuPont’s technical, regulatory and sales departments have moved across to the FMC Corporation.

FMC’s philosophy, as always, will remain on ensuring high product quality and customer support.

Article by: FMC

Article by: Max Wood, BVM.BVS.MRCVS

TB continues to be a hot topic at the moment. Recently announced changes to the testing regime within much of our area, and several new outbreaks, make it a very real concern.

It is prudent to pinpoint where there may be weaknesses in biosecurity; take a moment to review your procedures with these 5 principles in mind:

• RESTRICT contact between cattle and badgers (including their setts and latrines)

• MANAGE cattle feed and water to minimise access of badgers

• STOP infected cattle entering the herd

• REDUCE risk from neighbouring herds

• MINIMISE infection from manure

As vets, we are frequently faced with the difficult task of breaking the bad news, but as part of our holistic approach to farm animal care we look to explore options and employ strategies that will help minimise the impact the disease has on your farm business.

What are your options when you go down with TB?1) Selling direct to slaughter. This must be done under

license, readily obtained from APHA.

2) Selling to an Approved Finishing Unit (AFU). Cattle sourced from restricted herds must have had a clear test within 90 days preceding their movement, with the exception of calves under six weeks old.

3) Set up your own AFU. There are a number of conditions to be met before a license is granted, but it means that animals would not need testing on the 6 monthly regime. It is MUCH easier to set up an AFU without being under restriction, so expediency would be key if you were thinking along those lines, as TB encroaches ever nearer.

It is challenging to operate under movement restrictions and to factor in numerous tests, but there are possibilities which make business operations feasible. We have a large, dedicated farm vet team at Larkmead who understand the difficultiescurrently facing the local farming community. We adopt a proactive attitude towards problems, including TB, and work alongside our clients to deliver practical solutions.

If we can be of assistance to your livestock business, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Larkmead Farm Vets: 01491 651 479. www.larkmead.co.uk

February 2018