Photo credit: Sarah Carr, July – winning photo

Sarah Carr took the winning photo, named ‘The Welsh Black with Cadair Idris in the background’. The photo takes its place as the top prize image. You will find the Welsh Black  on the cover of each new 2024 calendar.

There were more winners chosen, congratulations to:

Rebecca Williams; Adrienne Thorpe; Elliw Jones-Evans; Adrian Morgan; Tracey Evans; Grace Marshall; Helen Powell; Chloe Hyde; Elliw Baines Roberts; Andrew Roberts and Gwenllian Evans.

Sarah Carr is the well-deserved receiver of £250, the top prize for the front cover photograph. She will receive her prize on the Monday at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. The other winners of the competition, whose photographs will also be displayed in the calendar, will receive a free copy of the bilingual calendar.

Choosing a winner was “no easy task”

FUW President Ian Rickman has this to say about the competition:

“The competition has proven popular again this year and it was a pleasure to look through the entries. It was no easy task mind, as so many wonderful images were sent in from across Wales.

“What this competition has highlighted again is that farming matters to all of us in one way or another and that our family farms are vital in not just the way of life here in Wales, but also in looking after the countryside and our livestock. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you for showcasing farming and our countryside in such a wonderful way.”

You can buy a calendar from your local county office. The FUW will update when the calendars will be available on their social channels.

They will also be sold on the FUW stand at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair for £5 each. Remember, £1 per sale will go towards the Wales Air Ambulance, a fantastic cause.

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The Bury St Edmunds site was the first of four British Sugar factories to open its doors in early September, announcing the beginning of the 2023/2024 sugar beet campaign. The Newark site was soon to follow a week later on 11th September, with British Sugar’s largest site of all in Wissington opening on 21st September. British Sugar is now firing on all cylinders, having just opened its fourth site on 9th October.

Farmers Guide took the opportunity to see the first deliveries of the campaign up close, having been kindly invited on site by Andy Simms, general site manager of British Sugar at the Bury St Edmunds site.

Ambient temperatures for sugar beet

Alongside a tour of the site, Andy spoke to us about how early operations at the Bury St Edmunds factory were fairing.

“Most of the kit onsite hasn’t run since February. We are getting it going and finding leaks so there are challenges with that, but we’ve had a safe and reliable start-up.”

Early September clung onto the high summer temperatures of late August, which created testing conditions for Andy’s team.

“Our biggest challenge has been the ambient temperatures; it’s really warm in the sugar factory. For our colleagues inside on a day of 30 degrees, it’s very warm work. It’s a lovely temperature for sugar beet, for sugar content. When the temperatures start to drop, it gets easier for our colleagues inside the factory.”

A net energy exporter

The Bury St Edmunds site is vast, and requires lots of staffing throughout the sugar-making process.

“Across the pre-silo operation, where we make the sugar, and the post silo operation, where we package the sugar up for our customers, we have 330 British Sugar colleagues plus contractors,” Andy explains. “We have 500 deliveries arriving on site today, which is about 14,000 tonnes of sugar beet.”

Such a large site also requires a great deal of electrical and steam power in order to operate each day. Andy explained that the on-site power plant is in fact a net-exporter of energy.

“We take natural gas and convert it into electricity in a combining power plant. This is exported to the National Grid and also produces the steam and electricity requirements of the site.”

The outlook is bright for great sugar content

Commenting on the expectations regarding sugar content for the early sugar beet harvest, Andy said: “The weather certainly helps. Sugar beet likes the sunshine; the crop is adept at turning the sun’s radiation into sucrose. Days like this really help the sugar content.

“Mother Nature will determine the average overall but so far we are predicting the sugar content to be about average for the last five years.”

Wishing growers a safe campaign

It was clear that safety is the primary concern for Andy and his team, reflected in his parting message: “We wish all our growers, our hauliers and our industrial and agricultural partners a safe campaign.”

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Benoit draws a positive conclusion about the experience. “We have been running various Alliance tyres on our farm for several years. We have also tested Alliance’s IF technology. However, the new Agriflex 372+ sets new standards!”

The tyres are mounted on a New Holland T7. The tractor is mainly used for tillage and sowing in more than 15 different crops, including lavender. This is typical for the region.

“Optimal performance in all weather conditions”

“We were looking for a tyre that can carry heavy loads and also offers high traction – and all this under different operating conditions. On the one hand, we have very variable soils, some of which are very clay-rich, and on the other hand, also climate change is causing increasingly extreme working conditions in the fields in our region. It is therefore important to make the best possible use of minimal time windows,” says Benoit.

“My experience with the Agriflex 372+ is that it delivers optimal performance in all weather conditions. It also runs much smoother during on-road operation, thus providing more comfort. The tyre is highly flexible and has a unique, complex construction with advanced, high-quality compounds.”

His practical experience on the farm also reveals that there is very low ground pressure and significantly reduced soil compaction. This is directly because of the VF technology. “The large contact area of the tread provides exceptionally good traction which reduces fuel consumption and improves productivity on the farm,” concludes the farmer.

Solid and durable

The tyre is well protected against punctures caused by stubbles, for example, and extremely durable in all applications. This is thanks to a solid steel belt carcass combined with high-quality tread compounds.

That is why the tyre can also live to its strengths on the front axles of large machines such as articulate tractors in the upper performance class. In addition, and thanks to the tyre’s wide footprint and high load-carrying capacity, the Agriflex+ 372 reliably delivers on machines such as combine harvesters and maize choppers as well.

Alliance expands programme

At this year’s Agritechnica in Hannover, Germany. Yokohama Off-Highway Tyres will showcase the 372+ and other treads. More farmers will have the opportunity to take advantage of these innovative, yet very economical tyres.

A brand new tyre will make it’s debut as well; quoted to be a hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. You can see these at Agritechnica in Hall 4, stand C28.

The post Alliance Tyres: Cultivating Success with VF Technology appeared first on Farmers Guide.

A new approach to fertilisation with Supersoil

Adam’s journey towards sustainability led him to discover Supersoil, an organic fertiliser with a difference. Composed of healthy soil microbes and organic plant matter, Supersoil not only enhances soil health but also promotes grass regrowth. The fertiliser breaks down organic matter to release vital nutrients to the sward.

A tale of two paddocks

Adam’s experiment began with a meticulous approach. He measured the dry matter in two paddocks, both initially registering at around 1,800 kg of dry matter per hectare. One paddock received Supersoil, while the other received the usual slurry application.

Promising results from organic fertiliser

Even in the face of challenging weather conditions with no rain for a week, the results spoke volumes. In just one week, the paddock treated with Supersoil exhibited a remarkable 9.5% increase in growth rate compared to the one receiving slurry. This initial boost in grass regrowth was a promising sign of what Supersoil could deliver.

A month of transformation

The positive impact of Supersoil continued to manifest over the course of a month. Adam noticed an impressive overall increase of 420kg of dry matter in the paddock treated with Supersoil compared to the one receiving slurry. Not only did Supersoil enhance growth, but it also contributed to a lush and even sward, adding to the overall visual appeal of the pasture.

Optimal timing for first-time users

While Supersoil has already proven its worth in enhancing dairy farming practices, its timing of application can optimise its benefits for first-time users. Applying Supersoil at the back end of the year, during the land’s resting phase, allows for the multiplication and establishment of beneficial soil microbes. These microbes work diligently over the winter months, converting organic matter into vital nutrients and priming the soil for the growing season.

Microbial establishment

The key to Supersoil’s effectiveness lies in its microbial community. By applying it at the back end of the year when the land is in a resting state, farmers allow these beneficial microbes to multiply and establish themselves in the soil. This crucial preparatory phase ensures that the soil is brimming with microbial activity, ready to kickstart the growing season in spring.

Nutrient release

Supersoil’s microbes excel at breaking down organic matter, releasing nutrients that would otherwise remain locked away. By introducing organic fertiliser during the dormant winter months, these microbes have ample time to work their magic, converting organic matter into readily available nutrients for the upcoming season.

Reducing dependency on chemical fertilisers

The strategic application of Supersoil at the end of the year allows farmers to reduce their reliance on chemical fertilisers during the growing season. As the soil becomes enriched with nutrients, the need for synthetic additives diminishes. This contributes to a more sustainable farming approach.

Improved grass regrowth

When the first signs of good growing conditions arrive in the spring, pastures treated with year-end Supersoil application show a remarkable boost in growth. This initial advantage can set the tone for the entire season, resulting in healthier and more abundant forage for livestock.

Long-term soil health

Applying Supersoil towards the end of the year fosters long-term soil health. The microbial population establishes a robust ecosystem within the soil, contributing to improved soil structure, nutrient cycling, and overall resilience.

More than a fertiliser

Adam Holman’s experience with Supersoil underscores the importance of sustainable farming practices in modern agriculture. Dairy farmers like Adam can achieve improved grass regrowth, healthier livestock, and a greener, more sustainable future for their farms. In doing so, they also reduce the reliance on chemical fertilisers and harness the power of organic alternatives like Supersoil.

Supersoil is more than just a fertiliser; it’s a symbol of innovation and commitment to the land. As we look toward the future of farming, sustainable solutions like Supersoil are set to play a pivotal role in creating a harmonious balance between agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship. Farmers like Adam Holman are leading the way, proving that sustainable farming practices are not just a choice but a necessity for a thriving agricultural industry.

By applying Supersoil at the back end of the year, farmers can maximise its benefits, leading to healthier pastures, reduced reliance on chemicals, and long-term soil vitality, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future for farming.

How to get your Supersoil organic fertiliser

Take advantage of Supersoil’s organic fertiliser before the year is out; visit the Supersoil website to make contact.

The post Organic fertiliser: 420kg increase of dry matter within one month on West Dorset Farm appeared first on Farmers Guide.

It is more important than ever to uncover game-changing ideas and approaches.

Overcoming the barriers to agri-tech innovation

Acknowledging these challenges, Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) was established in 2016 following the then UK Government’s industrial strategy. A not-for-profit organisation, CHAP has developed and evolved to meet the changing needs of the agriculture sector. As a result of historic capital investment, CHAP now boasts 15 facilities in 10 centres of excellence across the UK with ongoing expansion efforts.

It has never been so important or the need so urgent to explore game-changing ideas and approaches to the ways in which we produce food, manage land and protect environments. Innovation requires that conventional wisdoms are challenged, novel technologies and digital tools are effectively deployed, and intelligent solutions to the most challenging aspects of agri-tech are developed.

All sectors of the agri-tech industry must come together to share ideas, foster collaboration and break-down the walls of silo thinking. In addition, we are now witnessing numerous stakeholders outside of the traditional agricultural, horticultural and food sectors contributing ideas, new innovations and forward-thinking approaches to help the industry tackle upcoming and persistent challenges. These may be companies with digital solutions, re-imagined processes for materials or technologies that may be repurposed for new applications.

CHAP’s key areas of focus, which has led to their success since 2016.

“A significant level of success”

In 2022-23 the order book for CHAP exceeded £1.8 million, with over £6 million for the sector overall. This equated to 57 projects at the peak of business activities, funded both through government and commercial organisations.

These projects generally involve project consortia made up of SMEs, academic and corporate organisations as well as R&D institutes. Projects tend to fall into one of five key areas of focus; soil and crop health systems, crop and protein diversification, advancing intelligent agronomy, innovative crop health strategies and controlled environment agriculture.

Linsey Cresswell, commercial director for CHAP said: “Given the extreme turbulence in the industry over the past year, it was very impressive to achieve such a significant level of success. I believe that this was a result of having an extremely high level of motivation by everyone across the agri-tech network with staff, members, partners and the industry as a whole ready to tackle some of the complex challenges that we face today”.

She added “We now have a very resilient model on which to work for the future to capitalise on the current successes and to build a high functioning agri-tech sector”.

CHAP has reached its goals through following four key pillars of activity.

CHAP’s four key pillars

CHAP’s success since 2016 is attributable to a flexible and pragmatic approach to industry challenges and to be focused on the needs of the sector, members and partners, it has done this via four key pillars of activity:

• Networking – CHAP has am impressive and active membership of agri-tech specialists who collaborate and interact to work on either new or existing projects and business ideas. This helps to drive new and existing networks and enhances project consortia and business development.
• Access to funding – The CHAP team provides expert advice and guidance to inform businesses and organisations about funding opportunities, guide them through the bidding process and help manage the project once funded.
• Capabilities – It is often challenging for SMEs to fund the equipment or lab space needed to test out new ideas or products, this was why the UK Government supported CHAP and its partners with capital investment at an early stage to develop new capabilities. These centres of excellence are distributed across the UK and can be utilised to support businesses depending on requirements.
• Dissemination – Good ideas and agri-tech solutions need to be in the public domain to gain traction, as such, it is vital that the outcome of funded projects results in products, solutions or processes being communicated to and embraced by the industry. Dissemination and knowledge transfer across the CHAP network via social and hard media, through sponsored events and at stakeholder meetings ensures that feedback is achieved for as wide an audience as possible.

CHAP’s ongoing focus remains the transformation of agri-tech ideas into practical solutions, aiming to provide solutions which will transform UK and global farming systems sustainably.

For more information about CHAP projects, contact enquiries@chap-solutions.co.uk.

The results of recent cucumber trials at the Natural Light Growing Centre.

The post CHAP helps to make innovative agri-tech ideas a reality appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The event was in late July, a short distance from the Claas company’s Harsewinkel headquarters. Claas previewed the new tractors during an ambitious evening presentation and then demonstrated in the field the following day. Unfortunately, the weather was like that of the UK in late July; chilly with frequent showers slowing harvest progress and preventing the new combines working for the event.

All the new products will be displayed at Agritechnica this November, but some are available to order now.

Small tractors with wide appeal

Three new series of small tractors have been added to the tractor line-up.

The entry Elios 200-series includes four models from 75–103hp. The base Elios 210 comes in cab or platform versions, and Elios 220, 230 and 240 models are available only with cabs. You can upgrade a base (24-forward/12-reverse), four-speed, three-range, two-mechanical ratio mechanical transmission with Twinshift (two-speed powershift) and an electro-hydraulic Revershift clutch-less reverser.

Rear linkage capacity is 3.2t and the gross vehicle weight is 5.1t, and the tractors have 30in rear wheels. Claas describes the Elios 200 models as ideal for simple yard tasks, with or without the optional Claas front loader.

A line-up of three Elios 300-series models starts at 85hp. They feature a five-speed transmission (30 forward/15 reverse) with Twinshift powershift which increases tractive power by 20%, and the Revershift reverser as standard. A clutch activation button on the back of the main gear shift lever eliminates the need for the foot clutch when changing gear. Optional Smart Stop disengages the transmission to bring the tractor to a standstill when the foot brake is applied. The transmission re-engages drive when the brake pedal is released.

Two Axos 200 models with outputs of 92 or 103hp slot in directly below the current Arion 400-series. These share the transmission of the Elios 300 models but have higher lift capacity and greater payload capacity than the Elios models. They are also equipped with rear wheels and tyres up to 34in. Axos models remain ideal for yard work with a 2.62m overall height, and an impressive 3.79m turning radius.

Shared engines for both types

All the new tractors except the base Elios 210 share the same FPT 3.6-litre, 4-cyl engine. They also include a wastegate turbocharger, intercooler and viscous fan for versatility and efficiency. These tractors achieve rated outputs from 83–98hp at 2,300rpm and produce maximum 85–103hp at 2,000rpm. Full engine torque is available across a wide rev range. The Elios 210 has a slightly smaller FPT 3.4-litre, 4-cyl engine delivering 75hp and 309Nm of torque. All models use SCR (AdBlue) to meet latest emissions requirements. One engine speed memory is standard. Two speed presets are an option – adding convenience for working with PTO-driven or hydraulic-powered implements.

Capable hydraulics

Standard rear lift capacity is 3.200kg for Elios models, and 3,350kg for the two Axos models. Front loaders with 3,200kg lift capacity are available. Hydraulic oil flow rates of 87 litres/min are standard but an optional third pump increases flow to 114 litres/min for faster cycle times. With the additional pump, an electrohydraulic operating system is available for Elios 300 and Axos 200 models and these tractors can be fitted with up to four spool valves.

Standard PTO is 1,000/540, but 540/540E is an option, and a front PTO can also be specified for the  front linkage with 1,000/540E and electro-hydraulic engagement.

Loader options

Claas loaders with mechanical or hydraulic levelling are available. There is a choice of operating systems to suit the application. E-Pilot S provides fingertip control of the loader only, whereas the Electropilot joystick can also operate hydraulic functions and rear implements. It contains direction change buttons too when Revershift is fitted.

Comfortable and functional

Elios 300 and Axos 200 models have a flat cab floor. Air conditioning and an air-suspended seat are options. A passenger seat is standard, and the steering wheel has height and angle adjustment. They display operating information on a 4.2in digital console behind the steering wheel. The display is also used to adjust functions such as the rear linkage operating speed, and spool valve flow rates and timings.

Power tractor – 650hp flagship

At the other end of the Claas tractor line-up, the Xerion 12-series provides a new option for large agribusinesses and contracting operations. There are two models – the 12.590 with up to 585hp, and the 12.650 with 653hp and 3,100Nm of torque.

Both models have a rigid chassis and four equal-size wheels or tracks and front and rear axle steering. Claas describes the tractors as highly efficient for the toughest draft work.

UK buyers are unlikely to choose wheeled versions as they need dual 800/70R42s to transfer the massive power to the ground. This makes the tractors excessively wide for UK roads. The much narrower four-tracked Terra Trac variant will therefore be the preferred option.

Low engine speed concept

Power is from Mercedes Benz 6-cyl, 15.6-litre engines which fit perfectly with the Claas low engine speed concept 2.0 strategy. Equipped with compound wastegate turbochargers, both models produce maximum power from just 1,600rpm and maximum torque down to 1,300rpm. Idling is at just 650rpm. Massive cooling packs maintain efficiency with the help of a reversible fan.

Drive and traction

The new Xerion design helps maintain 50/50 front to rear weight distribution to maximise traction. The 1,400-litre fuel tank is centrally mounted so weight distribution doesn’t change as the fuel level reduces.

The transmission, as would be expected, is a Claas CMatic CVT unit. Benefits of using CVT include gentle drive take-up which reduces shock loads on implements when starting off or altering speed. The new transmission is designed so that operators can utilise the full power for any application. Maximum torque is available from the minimum speed of only 50m per hour.

There are four drive modes with automatic selection. The drive management system transmits power continuously to both the front and rear axles and ensures maximum soil protection – regardless of the steering angle. This means that full traction is available even on sloping ground or when negotiating field obstructions.

The Terra Trac achieves a maximum 40kph transport speed at 1,400rpm. The wheeled version has a top 50kph road speed which is unique in its power class.

Technology maximises efficiency

Like Claas Arion and Axion conventional tractors with CMatic transmission, the new Xerion is available with a similar Cemos process optimisation system. This assists the operator by optimising power transmission, drive management and suggesting ballasting strategies based on the task and working conditions. You can achieve more than 10% fuel savings by using the system. It can recommend settings to increase soil protection too, as well as maximising working efficiency.

Phenomenal hydraulics

Up to three load-sensing pumps supply up to 537 litres/min at 1,900rpm. This means that even the largest drills with high hydraulic flow demands can be operated at low engine speeds, saving fuel. Up to
eight double-acting circuits can deliver up to 140 litres/min each. Cebis terminal displays flow rates for each spool.

New tracks

The new Terra Trac track assemblies have a positive drive, with at least eight drive lugs always engaged. There are two auxiliary steering cylinders per axle, and the track units are in two parts with rubber blocks between the undercarriage and main frame to absorb shocks and vibration. Two pairs of mid rollers on bogies adapt to ground undulations to maximise the footprint and traction. The Camso-manufactured tracks are available in 762 or 914mm widths.

Steering modes include standard trailed rear-wheel steering, four-wheel steering with the front and rear axles. These react simultaneously and there is also a reduced crab steering mode ideal for silage clamp applications. Dynamic steering can be selected – reducing steering wheel turns by 50% for fieldwork.

Largest cab of the range

The cab is like larger Claas Lexion and Trion combines, but it is extended by 27cm at the front giving even more space. The steering column has available footrests, and in the right-hand front corner by the A-pillar for use when the seat is rotated 40 degrees for an improved view of the rear implement.

Control is through a CMotion joystick; like Claas combines, and monitoring and set-up is through a Cebis touchscreen terminal.

The cab has four-point suspension. The company’s demonstration drivers at the event suggested that ride quality on- and off-road is exceptional and superior to a wheeled tractor, especially over rough ground.

Precision farming

A full range of Claas precision farming applications are available. The Cemis 1200 12in display allows remote transfer of field maps and guidance lines and is used for strategies including section control and variable rate applications.

Smaller combines with extra performance

There are two new Evion five-walker models, the Evion 410 and Evion 430 – both powered by Cummins 6cyl engines and using the Cemis 700 control concept. Replacing the discontinued four-walker Avero and smaller Tucano models the new combines slot into the range directly below the new Trion series.

The Evion has a 600mm threshing drum and a synchronised impeller combined with five 4.4m long straw walkers and a feeder housing 1,420mm wide. This gives a concave area of 0.95m2 and a separation
area of 6.25m2 provided by the straw walkers.

The Cemis 700 terminal infinitely adjusts the threshing drum speed between 480–1,150rpm. Like the larger combines, the concave clearance is also adjusted from the cab and has blockage protection. A Multicrop concave is standard so changes are rarely needed for different crops.

For improved secondary separation and higher throughput, the centre risers of the straw walkers have been redesigned for extra loosening of the crop and achieve faster transfer to the subsequent straw walker racks.

In addition to the anti-blockage system on the drum, there is new sensor-based monitoring of the straw walker crop flow. If blockages start to develop, then the operator receives acoustic and visible warnings. An optional Cemos Auto Crop Flow feature automatically deactivates the header and feeder if a risk of blockage or serious belt slippage is detected, to prevent more crop being taken in.

Enhanced cleaning

The upper and lower sieves move in opposite directions and have a total 4.8m2 sieve area. The sieve design is enhanced in line with Lexion and Trion cleaning systems. Electric sieve adjustment and loss monitoring is standard. The radial cleaning fan is adjusted from the cab and can be controlled automatically for uphill and downhill working with the optional Auto Slope. The optional 3D cleaning system compensates for lateral tilt to 20% on slopes.

Grain tank capacity

Grain tank capacity is 5,600 litres for the Evion 410 and 6,500 litres for the Evion 430. Unloading at 90 litres per second increases productivity when emptying stationary on headlands. The 105-degree tube movement means trailer filling progress is easily monitored from the seat. A pivoting end spout is an option.

Dynamic Power

The Cummins 6.7-litre engine is like that used in the Trion, and maximum power is available at only 1,900rpm. Dynamic Power Management delivers only the necessary power by ‘repositioning’ the engine’s power band and achieving significant fuel savings up to 10%.

The ground-drive transmission is hydrostatic with manual control and there are three mechanical gears.

Header choice

The Evion has a similar header mount to Lexion and Trion models so a wide range of attachments is available. Maximum cereal header width is 6.8m.

Contour ground adaptation automatically adapts the attachment to compensate for ground undulations parallel to the direction of travel. Auto Contour, programmed through the Cemis 700 terminal is an option, and allows the cutterbar to adapt to both parallel and transverse ground undulations.

Operator environment

The spacious cab has similar controls to larger combines, including the CMotion joystick. There is a large, clearly arranged keypad and a Cemis 700 touchscreen. Pre-programmed settings for a range of crops provide a reliable start point, and these can be optimised for the conditions during work and saved for recall later. The Cemis 700 terminal is fully Isobus compatible and can be removed for use in tractors and with other implements.

Automatic climate control is standard, and footrests and a cool box are options. LED lighting is also included, but optional upgrade kits are available.

Claas UK combine product specialist Rob Portman told Farmers Guide that most demand for the new Evion series will be from farms with 20–200ha which prefer operating new and more efficient combines with a comfortable cab, features and a choice of headers similar to the latest larger models.

Forage range grows

Claas has added the Disco 9700 RC Auto Swather to its line-up. The mower-conditioner with a belt merger is specially designed to provide high work rates even in very high yielding, bulky but fragile crops such as wholecrop rye and triticale.

The infinitely adjustable working width is from 8.8–9.5m, and both mower units can be drawn in to increase overlap and avoid misses on field headlands and cross-slopes, or pushed right out for maximum productivity – utilising the full 9.5m working width.

The roller-conditioner crushes the crop gently without seedhead losses which would result from a tine conditioning action. The counter-rotating rollers drive through a heavy-duty driveline including a specially developed scissor gearbox to ensure the heaviest crops are pulled through without blocking. The conditioner spans the full width of the mower bed for efficient crop transfer, then the forage is discharged uniformly onto the wide belts of the Auto Swather to create a perfectly shaped swath.

In demand from professional contractors

The grouper belts are 1.1m wide with Kevlar reinforcement to handle heavy and bulky crops. The grouper units are individually controlled and when working without swath grouping, with less regrowth or when less wilting is required, one or both belt units can be folded up hydraulically to consolidate a working width of 19m to 12m for the next pass with a 12.7m four-rotor swather.

The new Disco 9700 RC Auto Swather is rated for tractors up to 500hp, and it was tested last year in a crop of wholecrop Triticale yielding 60t/ha in Texas, where it performed well at speeds of 15–20kph.

Claas UK forage product specialist, Dean Cottey said that most demand for the new mower will be from professional contractors harvesting a range of crops including high volume biomass, wholecrop rye or triticale as well as grass.

Read more machinery reviews.

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The New Holland Agriculture CH7.70 combine is the latest addition to the CR twin rotor rotary ‘proven record-holding’ range and the proven CX conventional range.

This crossover combine delivers outstanding grain and straw quality for all crops and conditions. The highly fuel-efficient engine with patented HI-eSCR 2 technology for Stage V compliance delivers high productivity, extremely low operating costs and comes with the superior comfort of the Harvest Suite deluxe cab. 

Threshing adaptation to match the conditions

The crossover technology delivers up to 25% higher throughput than a conventional combine in this segment. The two-drum threshing system features a 600mm diameter drum delivering outstanding threshing performance. The large drum combined with the user-friendly sectional concave, enables fast adaptation to different crops, in less than 20 minutes.

Drum speed is controlled from the cab by a new heavy-duty hydraulic drum variator. This ensures that the speed is perfectly matched to crop and field conditions. The New Holland Opti-Thresh system adapts to crop conditions and maturity by repositioning the rear part of the concave – no tools required. When the hinged top section is moved away from the drum, the rubbing action is gentler, improving straw quality.

The CH7.70 combines this high-capacity two-drum system with New Holland’s proven twin rotor concept, delivering the Crossover Harvesting experience. The specially designed 21-inch, 3.45 metre-long twin rotor system provides the largest separation area in the segment, at some 2.9m². When switching between crops, the changes required are minimal, resulting in outstanding crop-to-crop versatility.

Plenty more to learn about New Holland combines

Find out more about the New Holland Agriculture CH7.70 combine. Alternatively, visit our machinery section for machinery launches.

The post New Holland launches new crossover combine appeared first on Farmers Guide.

“We’re testing techniques that will enable these soils to better cope with the weather extremes that climate change is, and will, throw at it,” explains Mike Green, BASF agricultural sustainability manager and project lead.

Enhancing soil health and biodiversity

Extended spells of dry weather, combined with very short periods of heavy rainfall tests soils’ capacity to simultaneously absorb and retain water. The five plots are all designed to improve infiltration and increase organic matter. As a commercial farm, the need to produce profitable crops hasn’t been ignored. Neither has biodiversity, which is recognised for its agro-ecosystem services of pest management and pollination.

“Fundamentally, it’s about balance and resilience,” surmises Mr Green.

Alongside the broadacre crops, the plots include three- and four-year herbal leys with grazing sheep and ‘supercharger’ cover crops. The plots are interspersed with what the team are calling ‘agrofloristry’ – 2m of undisturbed grass between two 3m meadow flower strips – as well as being topped and tailed by headlands which have been taken out of production to be ‘reset’ under a three-year meadow mix.

Degraded topsoil

Professor Jenni Dungait has been analysing the the soil health since the baseline year in 2021:

“When I first looked at this field, it was clear that it was degraded.

“At the top of a hill, it’s what would traditionally be called a ‘scald’, and over generations, much of the best soil has been carried to the bottom of the hill by wind and rain. With little topsoil above the bedrock, it is stony and vulnerable to compaction.”

Ahead of the first year of Project Fortress, Prof Dungait took soil samples from across the field and the adjacent woodland. She expected to find the cultivated areas contain very little carbon and have poor structure.

“Surprisingly, at about 6.5%, the topsoil across this field had very high levels of organic matter for their type, topography and climatic conditions, making it difficult to improve.”

Despite the challenge, the herbal ley with rotational grazing by sheep has increased the organic matter content of the topsoil by 0.5% in just two years. “In this context, and understanding how long it takes to build organic matter in soils, that’s a huge increase,” notes Prof Dungait.

Compacted subsoil

Below the traditional plough depth of 8in, it was a different story: “The sub soil is compacted and has a comparatively low organic matter content of 3–4%. So that’s where our focus has been – getting carbon-containing organic matter down deep into the soil profile.”

Contrary to current trends, Prof Dungait suggested subsoiling to alleviate some of the compaction, enabling water penetration and the plants in the trial plots a chance to get their roots down.

“We needed to make a drastic impact on how this soil is performing. We’re already seeing the effects of climate change here, with the land experiencing high rainfall and drought, so the pressure is on to get this soil performing quickly,” she explains.

Prof Dungait and the team assumed that none of the deep-rooting plants in the herbal and cover crop mixes would be able to get through the remaining patches of compaction. “We were wrong. Given a second season, the chicory grew to over 5ft tall and its roots just about broke through. However, the thin spidery threads would take years to achieve what a sub-soiler can do in a pass.

“The taproot of the sweet clover also penetrated the tightly packed layer. It’s really important. We’re achieving one of Project Fortress’ primary objectives and getting carbon deep into the soil, both through the root mass and the carbon-rich exudates it’ll be releasing into the soil. That root will be keeping the soil structure open, allowing air and water to penetrate. It’s an incredible achievement in just two years.”

Excitement for the future

With a further three years of trials and analysis in Project Fortress, the team is really excited about the future. “The pressure is on,” says Mr Green. “Climate change is fast accelerating, and we need to adapt.

“Project Fortress is the ideal space to look at both the impact of climate change, and some approaches to building resilience on farm. It also gives us a platform to share knowledge and engage with those at the forefront of decisions that will impact the industry for generations, and our thanks go to the Pitts family for supporting the partnership.”

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The Northern Region of the National Sheep Association (NSA) teamed up with AHDB and various speakers to host the event at the J36 Rural Auction Centre in Cumbria. The event considered the direct support to farm businesses declining across the UK. More farmers are considering diversifying their sheep farming activities to supplement their income.

The morning session focused on direct selling of sheep meat products, purposely coinciding with ‘Love Lamb Week’. John Geldard shared the successes of the Plumgarths Farm Shop and associated family businesses in Cumbria, while Karl Pendlebury of AHDB and independent butcher Peter Allonby delivered an excellent butchery demonstration as the backdrop to a wide-ranging discussion about adding value to lamb carcasses.

Consumers want convenience

Karl and Peter understood the many approaches to the marketing of lamb; be it through box schemes, a farm shop, farmers markets, or online retailing. They were clear that whatever the approach was, the priority had to be convenience.

“Consumers want something that is convenient and will be quick to prepare and cook – but that can be good news, as they’ll then eat lamb more often, rather than only cooking a roasting joint on a Sunday or, increasingly, only on a special occasion,” said Karl Pendlebury.

Grace Randall, AHDB retail and consumer insight manager, echoed these consumer trends. She presented how domestic lamb sales would decline if the market failed to diversify beyond roasting joints.

Sheep farming must keep up with inevitable change

The attention turned to diversification ventures other than selling lamb after lunch. The sentiment of ‘time waiting for no man’, stressed throughout the morning session, was echoed in the afternoon. Speakers included Rebecca Wilson, an influencer on social media, and holiday pod entrepreneurs Vicky Slater and Kevin Holiday – both of whom have been able to thrive by adapting to the latest trends and consumer interests.

The positive attitude towards change embodied by John Geldard when he built his farm shop in the early 2000s was still applicable 20 years later and to all diversification types.

“Change will never stop; it’s about keeping up with it,” he said. “But remember, it’s important not to go into diversification to save your business. It will only work if it’s to strengthen your business. That’s been proven many times over the years. You need to build it from the bottom up.”

There were plenty of takeaways from the event for the sheep farming community to consider and action. You can find out more about the NSA and future events on the NSA website.

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He and his family grow wheat, barley and oilseed rape, and graze sheep and cattle, as well as running an agricultural plastic recycling plant at Barff Farm, Lincolnshire. When the Moores bought the farm, it was a highly productive operation growing solely winter crops. Over time, the management of black-grass became increasingly difficult, which affected their profits. Robert began to think about how the business could be run more sustainably and efficiently.

“We moved to the farm in 1988 and it had almost no hedges or trees – historical maps show there used to be over 90 small fields here which had been reduced to just 13. While the land was good productive, arable soil, black-grass had become a serious issue.”

In partnership with Woodland Trust

Looking to increase biodiversity, enhance the visual impact of the land, and make better use of underperforming areas, he started researching planting schemes. Following a recommendation from a neighbour, he applied to the Woodland Trust’s MOREwoods scheme, which provides advice and funding for landowners looking to plant trees.

Robert worked closely with an adviser from the Trust to design a scheme to meet his specific needs. Together, they identified less productive areas which were suitable for planting, and assessed drainage maps to make sure field drains were not compromised. Native species such as rowan, an excellent food source, were chosen to encourage biodiversity.

They planned a substantial woodland, measuring 100×600 metres and split into three segments, with a track running through it for access. Planting began in January 2021 with a total of five hectares of trees (1,600 trees per hectare) planted next to Paunch Beck, which runs into the River Ancholme at the edge of his land.

“We have a stream that goes right through the centre of the farm with the track alongside it. So, we decided to put the woods south of the track, so any shadows coming from the woods would be on the track and not the crop over the dyke.”

Enhancing wildlife habitats with hedgerows

Aware of the steep decline in biodiversity in the British countryside, Robert was keen to create corridors for wildlife by linking his new woodland with hedgerows. Having received MOREwoods funding, he became aware of the MOREhedges scheme and went on to plant 1km of hedgerow.

“We have a big reservoir on site that’s utilised for the recycling side of the business. So we interlinked the reservoir with hedges to the new plantations of wood for wildlife tracks to go down.”

Planting trees and hedgerows for future generations

Robert’s project took six months from application to planting the final tree. The subsidy allowed him to plant more woodland at a lower cost, although the return on investment isn’t straightforward.

“The benefit is in taking bad land out of production and planting a viable resource that has values you can’t quantify – like the visual impact and effect on the farm as an overall asset,” he explains.

The MOREwoods scheme provided a 60% subsidy, with Robert choosing to use Woodland Trust contractors for planting. The hedging project received a 75% subsidy, using a self-appointed contractor.

“Working with the Woodland Trust was very easy from start to finish,” he adds. “The application was simple and straightforward … and they even managed the Environmental Impact Assessment process which was required due to the size of area being planted.”

He anticipates the benefits will grow as the woodland and hedgerows mature. “We’re enhancing the farm for future generations. Yes, it’s going to take a fair while, but the plan is to leave the farm better than when we received it – not saying it wasn’t right when we got it because it was. It was the right farm for the time, but times have changed.

“The changes we’re making now are not only restoring the productive areas to a more sustainable system. We’ve taken out less productive land, squaring up fields and restoring some of the lost hedgerows and trees. The value of carbon sequestration alongside crop protection, soil fertility and the boost for wildlife are all long-term gains.”

Woodland Trust working with farmers

The Woodland Trust has decades of experience working side by side with farmers to harness the benefits of trees for business, nature and climate. The MOREwoods and MOREhedges schemes make it easy and affordable to plant trees on your land, whether you are looking to shelter crops and livestock from our increasingly wild weather, diversify your business, capture carbon or create habitats for wildlife. The schemes have already helped over 3,000 landowners with their planting projects – that’s 4 million new, native trees in the ground.

What funding and support do the schemes offer?

MOREwoods and MOREhedges subsidise up to 75% of the cost of woodland and hedgerow creation. They provide the advice and guidance needed for projects to be successful; from site suitability and species selection to planting, tree protection and management.

All farmers, landowners and land managers are welcome to apply providing the following eligibility criteria are met – all you need is a grid reference and a map of the area to be planted.

MOREwoods

• Eligible projects must plant at least 0.5ha of new woodland, with an average of 1,000-1,600. trees/hectare.
• The total area can be made up of multiple blocks of land, each 0.1 hectare minimum.

The cost to the landowner depends on project size, species choice and tree protection. On average, self-planted projects cost 40-80p per tree plus VAT, or £1-£1.80 per tree plus VAT if planted by a Trust-arranged contractor. A one-hectare site at the recommended 1,000-1,600 trees per hectare would therefore cost around £900-2,000.

MOREhedges

Qualifying schemes comprise 100 metres or more of new hedging with a large tree planted every six metres. The hedging must connect with:

• At least 0.2 hectares of existing or newly planted woodland (0.1ha in Scotland), or
• Woodland via established hedgerows within 500m of the new hedge.

Applications for MOREwoods must be submitted by 1st November if you wish to receive your trees this winter. Apply by 1st December to plant a MOREhedges this winter.

_{The Woodland Trust is a registered charity (294344 and SC038885). The Woodland Trust logo is a registered trademark.}

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