In this week's edition:
Your chance to debate with Defra ministers
2011 wheat harvest down, but not as bad as first feared
Heritage Lottery Fund in the North West
Unions combine to fight for egg producers
Egg Producers Discussion Afternoon
Farmers reminded to keep the Rural Land Register Up to Date
Milk Link announce investment in Lockerbie creamery
Natural England Board recommends new boundaries for Lake District National Park
Free services for woodland restoration in South West Cheshire
Cheshire East Rural Issues
WHAT’S ON?
Your chance to debate with Defra ministers: Monday 3rd October, Manchester
The Conservatives head to the region for their party conference next week. As ever, the event you can’t afford to miss is our fringe meeting which gives the party a chance to have their say on agricultural issues and for farmers to grill the Defra political team. The event is FREE to attend. ALL members are welcome to come along. We would like to see as many of you as possible there to ensure we make farming’s voice heard. The details are as follows;-
Monday 3rd October: NFU Fringe Event at Conservative Party Conference – 6:45pm, Manchester
“A Sustainable Food Strategy- How can the Government improve the environment whilst increasing food production?”
Speakers: Rt Hon James Paice MP, Defra Minister for Agriculture and Food
Lord Taylor, Defra Minister
Richard Benyon MP, Defra Minister
Peter Kendall, NFU President
Chair, Mark Spencer MP
Location: 6:45pm at The Buckingham Suite, The Palace Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA with Great British food and drink available.
2011 wheat harvest down, but not as bad as first feared
The 2011 cereal and oilseed harvest has not been as bad as first feared despite this year’s extremely dry weather. Final results from the NFU’s 2011 member survey have revealed a wide variation of yields across many parts of the UK with wheat yields below average, although oilseed rape production has increased to record levels. Winter barley crops have struggled with production down on the five year average. While the later maturing spring barley crop may have started slowly in parts of the UK, much of the area planted did eventually benefit from summer rain in England and production looks set to be above the five year average. UK wheat production for this year is estimated at around 14.67 million tonnes, down on the five-year average by 1.5 per cent, with plantings up 3.9 per cent. Oilseed rape production is estimated at 2.618 million tonnes, up 29 per cent, with plantings up 12.85 per cent. Winter barley production is estimated at 2.079 million tonnes, down 18.9 per cent, with plantings down 10.1 per cent. Spring barley production is estimated at 3.229 million tonnes, up 3.7 per cent, with plantings up 3.8 per cent on the five year average. This year’s NFU wheat yield estimate is 7.4 tonnes per hectare and five per cent down on the five-year average; oilseed rape is 3.8 tonnes per hectare and up 13.6 per cent; winter barley is 5.8 tonnes per hectare and 9.6 per cent down; spring barley is 5.3 tonnes per hectare with no change on the five-year average.
Heritage Lottery Fund in the North West
Heritage Lottery Fund committee for the North West is currently looking for new committee members. The closing date for applications is 31st October 2011. For more information visit http://www.hlf.org.uk.
Unions combine to fight for egg producers
UK farming unions have met to discuss how they can help protect the poultry industry after new welfare regulations come into force next year. Representatives of the NFU, Ulster Farmers’ Association, NFU Cymru and NFU Scotland met to discuss the Welfare of Laying Hens Directive, which will be law from January 1st 2012. Top of the agenda was the likely non-compliance of producers in some other European countries. British farmers have spent an estimated £400m to meet the rules, but the picture is less clear elsewhere and farmers in several Member States will miss the January 2012 deadline. According to figures from the European Commission, more than 11 million hens will still be housed in un-enriched cages when the EU ban comes into force. The majority of shell eggs imported into the UK come from Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, France and Germany, with liquid eggs and yolks coming from Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and France. At the meeting in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, the UK and Irish unions agreed to join forces and to come up with a plan to help prevent illegal eggs from entering the country and the food chain.
Egg Producers Discussion Afternoon: Thursday 6th October, Knutsford, Cheshire
ALL producers are welcome at this open NFU poultry meeting which will focus on the egg sector. Featuring a top class line up of dynamic and engaging speakers from the industry:
- HST Feeds on the latest developments and forecasts for global grain markets;
- Alastair Johnston of Minster Vets on the use of autogenous vaccines in commercial layers;
- Kelly Watson, Chief Poultry Adviser from NFU Head Office on the latest regulation affecting egg producers and how the NFU is working on behalf of poultry businesses;
- Sara Gibbins from liquid egg processor, Manton’s, with an overview of the egg product sector & the latest news from the processing markets;
It’s a great opportunity to meet the NFU team as well as fellow producers and have an open discussion on poultry issues. Buffet lunch on arrival at 1pm followed at 2pm by speakers & discussion on Thursday 6th October. Takes place at Heyrose Golf Club, Tabley, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 0HZ (Junction19, M6). It would help us with room arrangements & catering requirements if you could let us know if you plan to attend. To reserve a place or for further info tel: 01695 554 900. Mobile: 07966 203 790. Email aarun.naik@nfu.org.uk.
Farmers reminded to keep the Rural Land Register Up to Date
Many changes occur on the ground at this time of the year, especially after harvest, when boundaries and field sizes can change. Many of these changes need to be reported to the RPA, so they can keep the Rural Land Register (RLR) database up to date and as a result of this, you will have RLR maps that tie in with what is on the ground, as well as the field information that is shown on your 2012 SPS application form. Updating the RLR is carried out via the completion of the RLE1 form which is available to download from the RPA website or by calling the RPA Call Centre on 0845 603 7777. The RPA are aiming to turn RLR mapping changes around within 6 weeks, so changes notified in the next few months will be able to be incorporated into the field data shown on the 2012 SPS Application. The RPA are getting tighter on farmers claiming on land that is not eligible for SPS, to this end it is critical if changes are made to the RLR, that the SPS claim is checked. It is important to note the RPA now has access to regular updates from Ordnance Survey and Aerial photography suppliers. It is therefore in your interest to tell the RPA about changes to boundaries and permanent eligible features that are present on the land you occupy for SPS to avoid problems now and in the future.
Milk Link announce investment in Lockerbie creamery
Milk Link has announced a major £20 million investment in its Lockerbie Creamery - enhancing both its capacity and capabilities and making it one of the UK’s leading Cheddar production facilities. The investment will make Lockerbie the largest dairy processing facility in Scotland and one of the largest and most advanced creameries in the UK. The site will benefit from a major redevelopment with the installation of the latest processing technology increasing annualised production by 12,000 tonnes to over 37,000 tonnes of cheese per annum. The major investment being made at Lockerbie will not only secure the long term future of the creamery but also help to provide a strong platform for the expansion of dairying in South West Scotland and the North of England. In line with the new creamery’s increased processing capacity, Milk Link will now be actively recruiting additional Members in Scotland and the North of England to supply Lockerbie.
Natural England Board recommends new boundaries for Lake District National Park
The expansion of two of England’s finest National Parks has reached a major milestone as Natural England’s Board agreed to proceed with recommendations to significantly expand the boundaries of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, increasing their combined area by nearly 500km2. If confirmed by the Secretary of State, the new areas would join the ranks of some of the country’s most highly protected landscapes and would amount to the most significant addition to England’s National Parks since the confirmation of the South Downs in 2009. The proposed variation to the Yorkshire Dales National Park includes:
- To the north, parts of the Orton Fells, the northern Howgill Fells, Wild Boar Fell and Mallerstang; and
- To the west, Barbon, Middleton, Casterton and Leck Fells, the River Lune and, part of Firbank Fell and other fells to the west of the river
The proposed variation to the Lake District National Park includes:
- To the east, an area from Birkbeck Fells Common to Whinfell Common; and
- To the south an area from Helsington Barrows to Sizergh Fell, and part of the Lyth Valley
Free services for woodland restoration in South West Cheshire
The Northern Marches Project is an ancient / small native woodland restoration project over two years funded through EU and DEFRA. The aim is to stimulate economic growth by improving the condition of existing woodlands through practical advice. This can help woodland owners identify markets to stimulate management activities such as wood fuel. The team of trained foresters has considerable expertise in the management of existing woodlands and can offer FREE support to farmers in the areas around Tattenhall, Nantwich & Malpas in South West Cheshire. This includes:
- Advice on woodland management and restoration;
- Information & help with finding suitable contractors and equipment suppliers;
- Guidance & support with sourcing woodland grants;
- Timber marketing support & guidance;
For more info contact John Powell on 01952 435862. E-mail: john.powell@smallwoods.org.uk or visit www.heartwoods.co.uk.
Cheshire East Rural Issues
Cheshire East has released a discussion paper, Cheshire East Rural Issues Summary Document, and it seeks views on matters relating to rural areas in Cheshire East. There is also a questionnaire to fill in asking for your comments which will shape policies in the Local Development Framework, which will affect everyone that lives in, works in or visits Cheshire East. This is your opportunity to have your say in shaping the future of your district. For more information visit http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=7955. Please submit your comments by 5pm on Wednesday 30th November 2011.
WHAT’S ON?
Focus on the family farm: October & November – Tarporley, Cheshire
This series of seminars covers all aspects of succession planning, with reference to wills, partnership agreements, and protection for key employees, planning and managing tax implications, looking at diversification opportunities and retirement planning. It will show that dealing with issues up front can save a lot of personal, legal and financial problems later on:
- 4th October: Passing on the Family Farm - A broad overview of the main factors to be considered when intending to secure the farm for the future;
- 26th October: Making the most of your assets - Helping Farmers look at their business from the outside in order to evaluate whether their opportunities/financials are maximised which is relevant in the context of estate planning;
- 17th November: Farm strategies - Working closely with your professional advisors & business strategies in the context of succession planning and future proofing your farm.
Seminars take place 10:30 – 14:30 at Willington Hall Hotel, Tarporley, CW6 0NB. RDPE subsidised cost £99. For more info contact Lisa Forbes - Tel: 01270 613195 or email: lisaforbes@reaseheath.ac.uk
Safety & Health Awareness Days in the North West
Safety and Health Awareness Days (SHADs) are practical demonstrations covering the everyday hazards that those who farm face. Five or six practical demonstrations make up each half day session of a SHAD and each demonstration shows good practice that anyone working on a farm can use after the event to spot and deal with potential dangers:
- 6th October 2011: Ulverston Auction Mart Plc , North Lonsdale Terrace, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 9AU
- 12th October 2011: Lancaster Auction Mart, Wyresdale Road, Golgotha, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 3JQ
- 18th October 2011: Chelford Agricultural Centre, Chelford, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9AX
For times & details email: agriculture.shads@hse.gsi.gov.uk
Bowland FarmWatch meeting: Tuesday 4th October – Bowland, Lancashire
Ribble Valley Community Safety Partnership have organised a meeting to discuss the formation of a Bowland FarmWatch. You will hear how Smartwater can protect your farm equipment and discuss the benefits of forming a Bowland area FarmWatch. Newton Village Hall, Newton-In-Bowland, Nr Clitheroe, Lancashire starting at 7.30pm
Nuffield Scholar Information Day: 7:30pm October 17th, Garstang, Lancs
Would you like to more about becoming a Nuffield scholar? Established as travelling awards for farmers in 1947, the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust is an independent, industry funded charitable organisation. Each year the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust awards around 20 scholarships to applicants who work within agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture and associated industries or are in a position to influence those industries. Applicants are aged between 25 and 45 years (the upper age limit is 45), although a special award is available for young people between 22 and 28 years old, the Young Nuffield (Bob Matson) Award. In order to give potential applicants a flavour of the scheme an information day has been organised at Old Holly Farm, Cabus Nook Lane, Cabus, Garstang, Lancashire, PR3 1AA on October 17th starting at 7.30pm. Current and former scholars will be in attendance to give you a flavour of their experiences and answer any questions you may have. For more information contact Ian on 07754 852 600.
Cross Compliance Advice Workshop: Wednesday 19th October – Tarporley, Cheshire
Covers Livestock ID and registration, Animal Welfare, NVZ, the Soil Protection Review and new requirements for nutrient management in 2012 (GAEC 19, SMR 9). Delivered by Joe Winstanley & Mark Tripney. Takes place 7-9pm on Wednesday 19th October at the Wild Boar Hotel, Whitchurch Road, Beeston, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9NW. To book your free place call 0845 345 1302.
Training courses available in Greater Manchester for October
The following courses are available to farmers in Greater Manchester at discounted rates due to RDPE funding:
- 3rd-6th Oct: DIY AI (4 days). Bolton: 10am – 3.30pm. £245.70
- 10th Oct: Sheep Lameness/Foot Trimming. Bolton: 10am – 3.30pm. £58.25
- 10th–12th Oct Agricultural/Amenity Tractor Operator Training (3 days). One Ash Farm, Alder Lane, Cronton. 9am – 4pm.£150
- 10th–14th Oct: CS30/31 Chainsaw Operations - Felling & Processing Small Trees (5 days). Dovestones Reservoir. 8.30am – 4pm. £368
- 11th Oct: PA1: Safe Use of Pesticide Training. Blackley Golf Club, Blackley. 9am – 4pm. £100
- 11th Oct: Pricing your products. Red House Farm, Dunham Massey. 6.30pm – 9pm. £30
- 12th Oct: PA6 Hand Held Applicator Training. Blackley Golf Club, Blackley. 9am – 4pm. £100
- 12th Oct: Cattle Foot Trimming Part 1. Bolton. 10am – 3.30pm. £61.75
- 13th Oct: Emergency First Aid at Work. Blackley Golf Club, Blackley. 9am – 4pm. £32
For more information contact Ella Trickett on 01995 642222, Ext: 2208
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