Helping Manx farmers evolve and grow

October 2009 Agri-News Published by Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

The Food and Drink Festival Index Minister’s comments 2 - Hailed a Great Success! Promar Dairy report. 3 By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer New blood to build on The first Isle of Man Food and Drink festival held at the Villa Marina was hailed recent progress 3 a great success. Thie Slieau Whallian update 3 Throughout the event, organised by DAFF What has happened in the and DTL, over 8,000 event goers sampled Lamb sector? 3 and bought a huge variety of local produce. A number of producers sold out on the first Countryside Care Scheme News 4 day and worked through the night to restock Organic Scheme changes 5 their stalls in time for opening the next day. Young tractor drivers 5 Over the two days, visitors gleaned tips in the Manx Food Live Theatre, where The Tomorrow’s Farmer Awards 6 Hairy Bikers, local caterers and producers Outlook Meetings 2009 7 showed some of the best ways of cooking with Manx produce. Harvest Isle of Man 8 Following the success of this year’s Food The Nantwich International and Drink Festival, organisers are hoping Cheese Show 2009 8 to make it an annual event. Noble’s Hospital ‘Support your Local’ Food week 8 Four new Manx products Knockaloe Beef and Sheep event launched at Food and Drink Festival 9 By Ed Clague, Agricultural Policy Manager Boost for local food marketing 9

On Tuesday 22nd September, benchmarking, Loaghtan trial results, milling Farmers’ Markets update 10 approximately 60 people attended the wheat update, use of AI in the suckler herd, Assessing lambs for Knockaloe Beef & Sheep Focus event, for winter forage crops and the finishing steers better returns 10 an update on the progress of the trials and that were finished by 16 months of age at demonstrations that are currently under 290kg on grass. Also discussed was the use Hired Bulls and Disease Testing 10 way at Knockaloe. and economics of different diets; and the Fluke Monitoring: An Update. 10 outcomes of the ensuing performance of Attendees were updated on the Knockaloe early turnout and summer growth. New Chief Veterinary Officer 11 Farm Strategy. They had the opportunity to look at the farm’s account; understanding If you would like to know more about the 2.2% Pay Increase for how, implemented changes, the impact of topics, a summary of the event is available Agricultural Workers 11 rising costs, and the greater use of from Knockaloe. For more information Sawdust Offer and Free Wood contractors has affected the bottom line. please telephone 842335. Peelings from St Johns Sawmill 11 Discussion points focused on several areas that included the importance of suckler cow Market trends 12

Department of Agriculture DAFF Fisheries and Forestry

Department of Agriculture DAFF Fisheries and Forestry

Department of Agriculture Department of Agriculture Department of Agriculture DAFF Fisheries and Forestry DAFF Fisheries and Forestry DAFF Fisheries and Forestry Agriculture Fisheries Forestry, Amenity and Lands Eirinys Eeastaght Keylljyn, Buill-hoccar as Thallooyn

Department of Agriculture Department of Agriculture DAFF Fisheries and Forestry DAFF Fisheries and Forestry Wildlife & Conservation Animal Health Fo-rheynn Bea-feie as Freayltys Slaynt Veiyn 2

I’ve been delighted to read over the summer of the record prices being achieved by Manx pedigree livestock in sales in the UK, and also to hear of good commercial stock sales locally. , MHK

Photograph courtesy of Ian Quayle. Dairy cows at Ballamodha Farm. Minister’s comments I’ve been delighted to read over the While discussing Animal Health issues, I budgets are under more pressure than summer of the record prices being would like to take this opportunity to they have been for a number of decades, achieved by Manx pedigree livestock in congratulate Stuart Jaques on his so it is therefore essential that, via the sales in the UK, and also to hear of good promotion to Chief Veterinary Officer. Countryside Care Scheme, we show value commercial stock sales locally. We can Stuart brings a wealth of knowledge, to the community, by maintaining our rightly be proud of the quality of our experience and enthusiasm to the role. highly prized environment. livestock and bloodlines, and of the fact It was great to see so many people attend A continuing concern for the industry that we can compete successfully in UK the first Manx Food and Drink Festival currently is the dairy sector. The report markets. There does appear to be a spirit held at the Villa Marina last month. There by Promar continues to be refined and of cautious optimism, in several sectors of now appears to be a virtuous circle with verified; I hope that this will be concluded the agricultural industry at the moment regard to food, in that the more we very shortly so the follow on steps can be that things are moving in the right demonstrate our produce, the more considered. I understand the desire for direction. This is supported by news that interested customers become; this in turn actions immediately to assist this sector; throughput at the Meatplant in the last 12 encourages more people to develop their however, to act before the full report is months is one of the highest for the last products. DAFF, in conjunction with the received, would risk starting out on the 20 years. Feedback from the nominees Department of Tourism and Leisure, wrong road. for the Tomorrow’s Farmer award was worked hard in staging this event, but its incredibly positive; it is good to see that Finally, congratulations to Trevor Quirk future success also depends on food people have faith in the industry and are of Corvalley, who won the grading producers rallying behind the event and investing in their businesses. contest at the Royal Manx Show. The pushing it forward. Department is pleased to support the Revised Bluetongue import controls, which Compliance inspections for the Live to Dead workshops that are held allow our industry to continue to improve Countryside Care Scheme have now regularly at the Meat Plant. If you are by selective breeding, are to be started. I can understand that, to some, intending to challenge Trevor next year, welcomed. The Department has balanced this will feel like an unwelcome intrusion. an early attendance at this workshop is the need to take account of the improved However I am confident that the Field highly recommended. measures introduced elsewhere, against Officers who are well known to most the ongoing risk of infection. Any Hon Phil Gawne MHK farmers, will make this process as simple importation carries a risk of bringing in Shirveishagh as possible. In addition, I am pleased undesirable or even devastating disease, that we have been able to establish a so DAFF continues to work closely with disposal route for farm plastic, which will the industry to promote responsible help farmers significantly in getting rid of attitudes towards animal movement and this troublesome waste. Government’s bio-security.

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Promar Dairy report By Richard Lole, Director of Agricultural Services

As this article is written, we are still trying Early indications are that it will help us to finalise the now very substantial to establish how to go forwards with Promar report into the Dairy sector. This suggestions on how to add value to the has taken much longer than hoped; products. Also looking at increasing however, this reflects the thoroughness opportunities to get new entrants, and that both the project team, and all those succession amongst our dairy farmers; involved in the sector, have adopted in in order to generate and improve a undertaking the work. sustainable milk price.

New blood to build on recent progress By Richard Lole, Director of Agricultural Services The Department is currently looking to researching, developing and promoting a be responsible for facilitating the recruit a Local Food Marketing Manager for local food label that will provide a guarantee development of a thriving sustainable local a fixed three year period, to work with the of local quality products. Organic market. The role is likely to be for a industry in continuing to develop a fixed 18 month term, with the objective of The Department is also working closely with sustainable food chain. The role will include growing the local produce sales and the Manx Organic network to see how we helping individual businesses gain access to improving the supply and its consistency. can best support their desire to employ a marketing support, working in all sectors to Local Organic Co-ordinator. This post would promote the top quality fresh local foods;

Thie Slieau Whallian update By Rosemary Leslie, Personal Secretary

Good progress continues on the new hemcrete wall to the main atrium space, headquarters building, with the installation and first fix mechanical and electrical works of the roof lights complete, barrel vault roof are well underway. construction nearing completion and the Next month should see second fix services finish to the external walls well underway. work, raised access floor installation and Internally, the stud partitions and plastering, dismantling of the crane.

What has happened in the Lamb sector? By Richard Lole, Director of Agricultural Services

The Lamb sector often feels it is the poor around £915,000 in sales value to the through the plant this year. While based relation of the beef sector, so we thought company over the period; moreover it is on the target price, it does indicate the it worth summarising what has been estimated there will be an ongoing legacy scale of increase in income as result of happening to support the sector recently. value in the following few years, worth the policy change at IOM Meats. around £250,000 per year, for years 3 to 6. The Department continues to work closely Furthermore, over the last 12 months the with IOM Meats to refine its business In addition, subvention to the meat plant Department has funded a substantial strategy. Progress on a specific lamb is now in place. This has empowered IOM number of lamb selection days at the meat marketing strategy is ongoing; however, Meats to be able to commit to paying plant. This has given producers the chance Vance King and myself have been 95% of the price paid to farmers in Great to brush up on their handling and selection successful in establishing £185,000 of Britain. This has much improved the local skills in a 'live to dead' environment. marketing support over 24 months, to sheep price, which in August 2009 was This is part of an initiative to ensure the assist with the broader marketing and sale 26p/kg higher than the previous August. IOM Meat have a reliable supply of high of Manx meat. The average target price for the period quality lambs for sale both on and off The Marketing plan involves efforts to January to August date has been 327p/kg, the Island. improve quality and presentation, to allow an increase of 65p/kg on the same period access to new high value markets off the in 2008. This would equate to around island and increase sales on the island. The £335,000 extra return to Manx sheep plan is intended to create an uplift of farmers on the 519 tonnes of lamb meat 4

Countryside Care Scheme News by Kim Etherton, Countryside Care Scheme Project Officer

National Reserve The Scheme starts on 26th October and restrictions on the use of plant runs for 6 weeks. During this time, protection products require compliance Preparations are underway for calculating the farmers can take their plastics to the with the Pesticides Code of Practice and October instalment of the Countryside Care following drop off points between 8am that this requires the correct storage of Scheme payment that, for some, will include and 12.30pm, Monday to Friday: pesticides on farm. The Health & Safety at a proportion of an award of entitlement from Work Inspectorate of DoLGE require staff the National Reserve. In all, 55 applications October 26th to November 6th and employers to meet UK standards for to the National Reserve were received, Hangar 244, Jurby industrial Estate the topics covered by the Act and mainly from the Investment and Conversion November 9th to 20th Regulations, so it is as well to be aware of category. Work is on going to deal with all of David Crowe Ltd, Sunnybank, East Foxdale their contents. In the event of an accident, them by December, with priority having been evidence of having compiled with guidance given to New Entrants and those who have November 23rd to December 4th or regulations usually helps your case. asked for their assessment to be made on Balthane Industrial Estate, Ballasalla their 2008 subsidy claims. Payments to These sites are manned and loads may be Consolidation those whose investment in production is checked to ensure that no material other Notification of the result of requests to dependent on evidence accrued during than that specified for this Scheme are consolidate farmed areas will be sent out 2009, will receive payment in April once being delivered. Please note that waste towards the end of the year, along with receipts etc have been seen. such as containers of pesticides or other final assessments of Historic Entitlements. Cross Compliance inspections chemicals must not be taken to these Where land has been given up, farmers sites – contact SITA on 695260 option 2 for must have no involvement with that land Many thanks to the farms who volunteered details of how to dispose of such materials. thereafter. If an involvement is found to be “guinea pigs” for the new Cross during a Cross Compliance inspection, Compliance inspection programme. An area Material should be put into tote bags for penalties may be incurred. Inspection Manager from the Rural disposal, but tied bundles of plastics Payments Agency spent a few days with (including excess totes) will also be accepted. Manx Hedgerow Management Code the inspection team; looking at our Please also ensure that the material is as of Best Practice and the Heath processes and providing advice on the way clean as possible - loads containing large Burning Code in which similar issues are dealt with in amounts of silage may not be accepted. Work to review these is being undertaken England. Ongoing support from RPA is DoLGE are still working on a Scheme which now; new versions will be published in being arranged to ensure that our will allow disposal of tyres; it is hoped that January 2010 following public consultation. inspection process – and our inspectors – this will be in place in the Spring. In the The deadline for the consultation on the continue to evolve, completing inspections meantime, please store tyres safely in a hedgerow code is 31st October 2009, so which are fair and transparent and designated area, rather than around fields please send in your views to DAFF at Rose delivering the requirements of Cross etc – this will ensure that you do not incur House. Details of changes will be noted in Compliance. Andrew MacLeod, Senior a penalty under GAEC Standard 13 – the next Agri News, once the outcomes of Field Officer, and Ed Clague, Agriculture landscape, litter, waste and scrap. the current consultation process have Policy Manager, recently attended a been considered. meeting of inspectors from the surrounding Health and Safety at work jurisdictions. These meetings are designed The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 Hedgerow management re-commences to identify common Cross Compliance (as applied in the Isle of Man) is an from 1st September, but please note problems and work on consistent solutions. important piece of legislation to be aware Standard 16 – field boundaries applies This forum should also prove valuable in of, as agriculture was brought within it in to all types of hedge, including turf and helping the Island’s Scheme and associated 1998. The Management of Health & Safety stone-faced banks as well as shrubby Cross Compliance requirements evolve. at Work Regulations 2003 also apply on the hedges and hedgerow trees. Permission is required from the Department, before Cross Compliance inspections here have Island. Both can be downloaded from the such boundary features are removed or so far revealed that plastics scattered DoLGE website. An example of their destroyed. You should complete and around the farm are an issue. To avoid a application to agriculture covers the storage return a Works Approval form, available penalty, farmers are urged to collect of pesticides. These should be stored in a from DAFF, or download one from our plastics from their fields and store it safely secure and bunded or contained area. website - see page 32 of Chapter 6 of in one place in a tote or other container - Appropriate containers are available the Farmers’ Handbook for further details. see below for some good news with commercially but can be improvised – the regard to a free plastics disposal scheme. important point is that any chemical leaks A new version of the Heath Burning Code are contained and the container is kept will also be available from January 2010. FREE plastics disposal scheme secure, i.e. locked and accessible only to Its revised layout will seek to make DAFF and DoLGE are co-funding a scheme authorised users. HSE produce a leaflet on clearer how landowners should apply for whereby farmers can dispose of plastics, the safe storage of pesticides – Agriculture an extension to the burning period, such as silage wrap and clean plastic Information sheet A1S16 Guidance on (available up to 31st March), and for an containers, for a limited period for free. storing pesticides for farmers and other increase in the size of area to be burnt. professional users. Note that SM7 -

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Organic Farming Scheme 2004 (amendment) Scheme 2009 – higher rates of grant now available for new applicants By Kim Etherton, Countryside Care Scheme Project Officer This Scheme was approved by in (a) in the first year; £95 per acre (a) in the first year; £1000 July and makes the following changes to the (b) in the second year; £95 per acre (b) in the second year; £900 and 2004 Scheme: (c) in the third year; £55 per acre (c) in years three, four and five; £600 (d) in the fourth year; £30 per acre • The Scheme includes horticulture as a (e) in the fifth year; £20 per acre • There is now a requirement to provide a supported sector for conversion and business plan which demonstrates that organic production. Land already in organic production there is an adequate and viable route to Arable, dairy, horticulture and fruit growing: an organic market for the outputs from • Dairy land now qualifies for the higher £20 per acre for 5 years the farm. payments per acre for converted or in conversion land. These are: In addition, the payments made to the A new guidance note and application form is organic unit as a whole have been greatly now available from the Department. For Land in conversion increased and extended for two additional further information, please contact the Arable, dairy, horticulture and fruit growing: years. This recognises the costs associated Support Schemes team on 687304. with accreditation etc. The rates are now: Information on driving entitlement for agricultural tractors. By Mark Pattison, Chief PSV & DT Examiner, Highways Division Notes No Have You Passed Yes • Clarity has been sought regarding the For further information The Category f test? regulations for young drivers of tractors, please contact (tractor test) these regulations are shown in the Mark Pattison, following flow chart. Chief Examiner No on 627431. No • Category f test is the tractor test, category B is the normal car test. Have You Passed The Category B test? • An occupational road is a road to (Manual Car Test) which the public has access, but is not classified and may not be maintained, No Are You 16 Yes such as a green lanes and roads within Yes the curtilage of the farm to which the You may drive a tractor up public have access. 2.45m wide and a trailer up to You may only 750kg. If the driver passed • There are no requirements to display R drive on the Category B test before plates on agricultural tractors. occupational roads 1st January 2000 the towing • These rules only apply for vehicles weight restriction does not being used for agriculture, horticulture If you are 15 or younger you may apply as a full category f and forestry. only drive on private land. The entitlement was given on a responsible person that allows • If the business is general haulage public highway up to 30mph. connected with construction or plant hire, this is liable under Health and the full HGV rules and regulations apply. Safety legislation. At age 17 or over you can drive a tractor (not You may drive a tractor and trailer • When booking a category f test it is exceeding 2.45m wide) on the of any size on the public highway normal procedure for the examiner to public highway and not exceeding up to a maximum of 30mph but if travel to the farm in order to conduct 20mph and must display L Plates; both tractor and trailer are fitted the driving test. except if supervised in a vehicle with a powered braking system • Maximum combination weights. If the which has a fitted seat for a actuated by the footbrake you distance between the rear axle of the supervising driver, under may drive up to 40mph. tractor and the rear axle of the trailer is supervision you can tow a trailer less than 2.9m, must not exceed up at up to 30mph. 20000kg if over 24390kg. To run at these weights the trailer must have two axles and a powered braking system. 6

Tomorrow’s Farmer Awards By Kim Etherton, Countryside Care Scheme Project Officer

Congratulations go to the winners of this All the winners have spotted an traffic or road crossings. The broad trails new award, sponsored by Shoprite. opportunity, either for a new product or act as buffers, so there are unsprayed Presentations were made by John for improving an existing one. However, a field boundaries that are great for wildlife. good idea does not necessarily lead to Speakman, Trading Manager of Shoprite, The Kneale family have farmed at Lough business success – it is vital to do some at the Royal Manx Agricultural Show in Dhoo for generations but the enterprises research including checking that there are front of a packed audience of farmers, have been fine tuned over time; this customers for the products, and further retailers, processors and buyers. There ensures that they keep up with changing preparing a business or project plan which were eight nominees and all were judged customer demands, whilst using systems demonstrates that a profit can be made. against criteria for: farming efficiently and which suit the farm. The family have profitably, their focus on customers, their Tracey and Mark became aware that there reduced the varieties of potatoes grown to efforts to promote local food production, was a shortage of Island produced free range those that are most popular with their plans to diversify their business, and eggs. They developed detailed plans to customers; they have changed from using the conservation activity on their farm. demonstrate how they would grow their dairy crosses to using beef cows, so as to The winners were Mark Baines and Tracey business from a small beginning. They have drive up the quality of their finished Gelling from Gelling’s Eggs based near expanded slowly, building supply and animals. They work hard to meet the Onchan. Second prize went to Robert and production in tandem, as they know that requirements of Isle of Man Meats, and Catriona Morrey, who farm in Andreas, retailers expect and demand consistency. have taken advantage of the available and third prize went to the Kneale family, Promising what you cannot deliver is not the contracts for supply. They are firm who farm at Lough Dhoo, Ballaugh. An way to a successful business. They place believers in using the grants etc that are additional award was also made – the great emphasis on good husbandry in order available to improve stock quality. to maintain a quality product, buying quality Judges Special Award for a Young Farmer Finally, Darren is following in the footsteps hens, feeding them well and completing daily – this went to Darren Cleator. of his farming dynasty, he acknowledges checks on performance so that problems can that it has been enormously helpful to Certificates were awarded to the be spotted quickly and resolved. remaining nominees who were: Tim have been able to learn from his family. Robert and Catriona have each specialised Allison, arable and beef farmer from St However, he has had to work hard to get in different areas, reflecting their expertise Judes, dairy farmers Andrew and Sue back into farming from working for an and the ability of the two enterprises to Sanders from Baldwin, the “veg man” agricultural merchant. He has researched work side by side on their land – Robert in and developed the idea of feeding his from Regaby, Bryan Radcliffe, and sheep high value crops for specific markets and beef calves outside on fodder beet during farmer Robbie Christian from Crosby. Catriona in riding routes and other the winter: after many hours on the Agri-News caught up with the winners equestrian events. Robert believes that Internet and speaking to contacts in the after the awards to find out more about farmers on the Island can grow crops for industry, both on and off Island the search the factors that led to their success. The niche markets, as bigger producers are led to a contact in Northern Ireland. He judges had commented on how impressed less interested in them; conversely it is keeps a careful watch on quality and they had been by everyone’s drive and difficult for Island producers to compete conformation to inform decisions on which enthusiasm for a positive future for successfully in commodity markets. He cows are culled and which bulls are farming in the Isle of Man. This certainly grows vining peas for seeds and Red changed. Like the others, he emphasises came across – these are people who see Wheat for baking flour in addition to the importance of constantly reviewing the glass as being half full, rather than half milling wheat for local use. Catriona’s input costs and return on investments; empty! A common theme that emerged trails wind around the farm, providing checking to ensure that profit, and not was the need to have an idea or a vision miles of safe and scenic riding, with no just turnover, is being achieved. for where you want to be in your farming business, and to work at achieving that desired goal. All commented on the need to be prepared to work hard and not take no for an answer, in pursuit of an idea that you feel to be right and worthwhile. It was acknowledged that a long term strategy is needed for farming businesses, and it is important to keep track of the external factors that may affect it. A flexible approach to responding to change is required and, whilst avoiding obvious mistakes is important, learning from those that inevitably occur should be seen as a positive opportunity. From left to right: MHK, Tracey Gelling and son Sam, Darren Cleator, Robert and Catriona Morrey, Mark and Figrid Kneale and Andrew Macdonald, SAC Agricultural Adviser.

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All the winners were asked for their tips • Face to face conversations with • Most of the farms have hosted school or for success, and ideas for future customers provides instant feedback other group visits. They have found them developments. Here are some: about products, so you can adjust to be enjoyable and a great opportunity accordingly. It builds trust, which is to inform and educate. The more that • Accept that ideas may take twice as important to retaining customer loyalty. local people know about where their food long to implement as you imagine – and comes from and the issues which cost twice as much. Don’t give up, but • Complete soil tests and only use the surround food production, the more likely do your homework and stick with it. amount of fertiliser actually needed. Mixed they may be to choose Manx. farming may be an old idea, but rotation • A Seed Certification Scheme would does keep some input costs down. Finally, will the award continue? All the capitalise on the low risk of disease winners were pleased to be nominated for the offered by the Island – a potential • Farm shops will become more important – award, and got a real buzz out of showing the lifeline for cereal producers. there’s a “feelgood” factor for customers judges around their farms. The award helps who buy direct from the farmer. • Keep looking for new ideas and to raise the profile of the farmers; this can be approaches – go to trade shows, read • A forum for small groups of farmers to especially important when negotiating with journals, use the Internet. Success comes get together to: share good practice, customers. They feel that there is a place for to those who search for it, because it ask for suggestions/advice around an award that recognises the efforts of won’t get handed to you on a plate. specific issues and swap contacts and farmers to be forward looking; striving to sources of information. Farmers can improve and/or develop new products to • Get help with funding diversification become bogged down in the “day job” meet changing consumer demands. The ideas – obtain details of grant aid. and feel isolated. Perhaps DAFF could Department is pleased to say that Shoprite host a website of useful contacts? will sponsor the award next year, so Tomorrow’s Farmer will continue!

DAFF Agricultural Advisory Service Outlook Meetings 2009 By Andrew Macdonald, SAC Agricultural Adviser NEW this autumn: a series of outlook increase sales, reduce fixed and variable costs, and improve profits. conferences for sheep, dairy, beef and costs, and improve profits. As the loss of the red meat derogation crops farmers Conference 2: Dairy Sector Outlook on looms, the need to be aware of, and These events are designed to give an Tuesday 20th October responsive to, the requirements of insight into the global outlook for these customers will be even more important. Steve Ellwood, Head of Food and farming sectors and to consider the impact Considering how the different parts of the Agriculture with Smith Williamson, and of changing markets on your farm business. food chain can work together better will be former Head of Agriculture for HSBC Bank, The emphasis will be on identifying positive an important topic for discussion at this, and will assess trends in supply and demand for actions that you can take in order to all the outlook events. dairy products around the world. Closer to maintain and grow your profits. Places are home, Findlay Macleod from Isle of Man Conference 4: Cropping Sector limited, so please book yours early by Creamery will talk about their plans for Outlook on Thursday 26th November telephoning Knockaloe on 01624 695726. marketing dairy products both on and off David Eudall, Market Analyst with HGCA These mini conferences are an invaluable Island; sharing thoughts on how farmers will provide an insight into the changing face opportunity to hear the latest thinking, to and the creamery can work together to both of the global market for cereals and other discuss problems and solutions, and to gain sustain and grow demand for dairy products. crops. Speakers from Laxey Glen Mills will new ideas - don’t miss out on your chance DAFF Advisory Service staff will look at the explain their plans for marketing grain to take part. practical and business management options produce and innovation in this important that can be used on farm, in order maximise All of the events will be held at the Glen sector for Manx farmers. DAFF Advisory profits from your dairy enterprise. Helen Hotel from 1pm to 4pm – details of Service staff will describe action which can each are as follows: Conference 3: Beef Sector Outlook on be taken on individual farms to reduce costs, Thursday 22nd October and improve output, margins and profits. Conference 1: Sheep Sector Outlook on Tuesday 13th October 2009 Speakers at this event include Chris Harvest was in (damp) progress at the time Brown, Agricultural Manager with of writing, so the size and quality of it has Clive Brown from Eblex UK will discuss ASDA UK who will discuss UK and global yet to be known. Whatever the outcome, UK and global supply and demand for market for beef products; together with there is bound to be lively debate at the sheepmeat. Speakers from Isle of Man staff from Isle of Man Meats who will meeting about the best way to take the Meats will explain their plans for marketing share their plans for marketing beef - sector forward. sheepmeat, and the ways in which farmers especially in the lead up to the potential loss and the company can work together to the of red meat derogation. DAFF Advisory benefit of both parties. DAFF Advisory Service staff will offer ideas on how to Service staff will offer ideas on how to increase sales, reduce fixed and variable 8

‘Taste’ Directory is launched – A unique insight into eating out in the Isle of Man By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer The Isle of Man Official 2009/10 ‘Taste’ a new quality assessment scheme. This Directory has now been launched. The award is available to proprietors, whose Directory has been produced to introduce premises score above 60% for their use of the visitor to the Island’s diverse range of local produce. All aspects of the business quality assured restaurants, cafes, tea are assessed, from how knowledgeable rooms and takeaway food establishments. staff are about local produce, to how It should also prove to be beneficial for varied their use of Manx produce is. I am local residents, listing a wide range of delighted that so many proprietors have ‘Quality Assured’ or ‘Highest Quality achieved this accolade. Keep an eye out Assured’ eateries across the Isle of Man. for the “Harvest” Isle of Man plaque when you are out and about - a visit to one of Minister MHK commented: these great Manx food outlets will help ‘The key message we are keen to deliver support our local food producers.” is that ‘Taste Isle of Man’ accredited venues have been independently assessed Distribution of the ‘Taste’ Directory has by qualified assessors from the UK, in the required ‘quality assured’ standard. started and anyone interested in receiving accordance with a strict criteria covering We are proud to be able to offer our a copy can request one from the Welcome all aspects of the customer experience. visitors and residents a choice of 18 Centre in the Sea Terminal. For further ‘Taste Isle of Man’ is not an award given accredited venues across the Isle of Man, information on ‘Taste Isle of Man’ contact: by the Department of Tourism and where they can expect, and be pleased Nikki Salmon, DTL, Quality and Services Leisure, but an accolade awarded to those with, a quality customer experience.’ Executive on 685965. venues who have chosen to take part in Welcoming this new initiative Minister Phil the scheme and have met or exceeded Gawne, MHK, said: ‘Harvest’ Isle of Man is The Nantwich International Cheese Show 2009 By Jackie Mitchell, Marketing Executive, IOM Creamery

Isle of Man Creamery exhibited at the multiple retailers in the UK, including Nantwich International Cheese Show in Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and July this year, the largest Cheese Show in Waitrose. The consumer day attracted the world. approximately 33,000 members of the public, who were able to taste and buy Held in the heart of the Cheshire farming the very finest cheeses from all four community, the Nantwich Show trade day corners of the world! attracted senior buyers from all major

Noble’s Hospital ‘Support your Local’ Food went Down a Treat By Andy Pennington, Provisions Manager, Catering Dept. Nobles Hospital

The 2nd celebration of the Manx food was like Lynda Tottenham’s home made jams Minister for DHSS, said “A lot held at Noble’s Hospital Restaurant during and Greeba Mushrooms, as well some of of hard work and effort has gone in to the July. This event showcased the support our larger Manx suppliers that included preparation and organisation for this event. that the DHSS and Noble’s Hospital give to Robinsons, IOM Creamery and Harrison To promote Manx Produce in this kind of local Manx farmers and producers. I first and Garrett Meats. way is outstanding. The public may have thought of this event last year as a assumed incorrectly that Noble’s Hospital This year, the event was extended to the challenge, I wanted to show the people of imports much of its fresh produce and user patients of the hospital, as a way to raise the Island that Noble’s doesn’t import ready products; now because of the hard awareness of Manx produce and how it is meat, dairy or vegetables - it is all sourced work and dedication from both the catering used within recipes in the patient menu locally and prepared within the Hospital”. staff and the suppliers, I hope that people system. Each patient received a special realise that Nobles and the DHSS are On display were a variety of Manx menu, with an explanation of what local wholehearted supporters of local produce.” products, including the smaller suppliers products are used by the hospital.

Agri-News October 2009 9

Four new Manx products launched at Food and Drink Festival By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer The Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival is centuries. Rain falling on the slopes of Norse heritage of the Isle of Man. This a good platform to showcase new local Slieau Whallian has filtered down to first product, Ballarock’s Celtic Mist Cream food products. We were pleased to host create subterranean streams that flow Liqueur, is a luxurious blend of Manx 4 new products this year. beneath Ballabrooie’s beautiful orchards, cream from Isle of Man Creamery and fine where organic practices have been spirits with subtle hints of caramel and Anagh Coar Butcher’s Chrym Vannin followed for decades. Green Mann Spring butterscotch. For more information, please Yskid (dried Manx ham). This ham came water is uniquely soft with an unrivalled contact Adrian Costain at Ballarock Farm, from a pig raised on Ballamodha Farm. It taste. Available still or sparkling in Ballakilpheric, Colby IM9 4BW Tel: came to Anagh Coar Butchers in January reusable bottles; the most natural water 07624 337257 or 07734 151534 or 2008 and now packed in salt for 3 known to mann. For more information email [email protected] months; then wiped down with olive oil to please contact Shane Martin Tel: 321333 remove excess salt, and further hung in or email [email protected] muslin cloth for 12 to 15 months. Because of the quality of Manx pork, this Ellerslie Extra Virgin Cold Pressed ham has a unique flavour. This product is Rapeseed Oil is produced on Ellerslie only available from Anagh Coar Butchers, Farm in Crosby, where it is grown, Unit 2, Cushag Road, Douglas. For more harvested, pressed and bottled. If you information please contact Mr Bernie are interested in purchasing or stocking Cleary Tel: 625835 or email Ellerslie Oil, then please contact Pentti [email protected] Christian on 07624 472717 or email [email protected] Green Mann Spring Water. The mineral rich waters that bubble to the Celtic Mist Cream Liqueur. Ballarock is surface on the lowlands of Ballabrooie a fledgling branded drinks house with a near St Johns have been renowned for provenance focusing on the unique Celtic

Boost for local food marketing By Ed Clague, Agricultural Policy Manager

The Department is cranking up its support of the widening of the Department’s focus 4. Capitalise on and maintain the positive for the marketing of Local Food with the from primary producers to supporting the perceptions of Manx produce adoption of a Local Food Marketing Plan and development of the whole food chain on 5. Maintain the profile of Manx food and the recruitment of a Local Food Marketing the Island. The plan will involve close co- farming and its importance to the Island Manager to oversee its implementation. operation within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry as well 6. For the Department to be seen as a Food production is estimated to provide as the Department of Tourism and Leisure centre of excellence for advice, over £51m of income and over 1,000 jobs and Department of Local Government and information and support for the industry for the Island. There is significant Environment; together with a wide range opportunity to increase the locally The post of the Local Food Marketing of stakeholders including from the supplied share of the Manx food and Manager will be advertised shortly. The hospitality, food and drink industry. All catering market; (estimated to have total post will lead a new Department Food need to work together to exploit the sales of £248m), and to continue to grow Marketing team, made up of existing staff opportunities associated with consumer a viable export trade. The plan aims to whose roles are being refined to meet the interest in food authenticity, provenance contribute to this growth by building a needs of this new initiative. The team will and experience. strong food marketing specialism into the report to a Department Food Marketing Department. This will concentrate on The plan clarifies the Departments’ Committee, chaired by the Minister. The improving both consumer demand for objectives on how it intends to support Committee will become a single focus for local food, and the market focus of the the Island’s food industry these are: implementing this important work and will processing and producing sectors. draw on a specific budget identified for 1. Grow the profitability and sales of the project. The three year local food marketing plan Manx produce has been established through a series of 2. Support the delivery of an effective and workshops and local consumer research efficient food chain undertaken with the Isle of Man Agricultural Marketing Society. The 3. Exploit the opportunities offered by process has established stakeholder views food culture and tourism and priorities, if represents a continuation 10

Farmers’ Markets update By Sheila Gawne, Chairperson to the Isle of Man Farmers’ Market Association

We are pleased to announce that, as from Ramsey, Albert Road School playground hope to see many regular faces attending Thursday 3rd September, there will be a every Saturday: 10am - 1pm this new venue. regular weekly Farmers' Market in the Castletown, Southern 100 Clubhouse Anyone interested in either having a stall courtyard at Tynwald Mills, from 11am to 3pm. grounds on the 3rd Sunday in the month: or just wishing to attend the market to This is now our 4th Market. We are 1.30pm - 3.30pm purchase goods, please telephone currently holding markets at: 822992, or mobile 454549, or email The Mill Shop will be offering Manx food [email protected] Douglas, Villa Marina colonnade on the 1st market day specials in their cafes - we Saturday in the month: at 10am - 2pm

Assessing lambs for better returns By David Cain, Meat Grader The Manx NFU staged a demonstration and key handling points to assess fat levels and competition at the Royal Manx Agricultural conformation. Producers were then invited Show, with the aim of helping producers to classify 3 lambs and estimate their select lambs to achieve better returns. carcase weight in a competition that, out David Eden (MLC Services) and David Cain of an entry of 50, was won by Trevor Quirk (DAFF), were available to offer advice on from Corvalley Farm, Kirk Michael. (From left to right) David Eden, competition winner Trevor Quirk with son Lewis, and David Cain

Hired Bulls and Disease Testing By Richard Ashworth, Veterinary Officer Some Producers hire or borrow bulls for practice; it may be advocated by your Vet. Abortions reasons of economy. Such activity is a Vaccinated bulls pose less risk. Any abortion cases must be isolated and significant risk to your herd and you From the Animal Health Division’s investigated, for Brucellosis. Animal Health should consider seriously the disease risk viewpoint, the three Notifiable diseases will test for this, but your private Vet may in bringing in such animals. Nominally, (TB, Brucella, and EBL) are controlled by test for other numerous causes, in BVD, IBR, Leptospirosis and Johnes are of routine testing. If you have a test addition to Brucella. Sources of concern, but other general and arranged and have a hired bull (or other reproductive disease in the whole herd reproductive diseases may be introduced “loaned” cattle) on the holding, they must may be identified. Control measures can to your herd with potentially serious be included in the test. There have been be put in place to prevent an “abortion consequences. You should discuss control cases where these animals have not been storm” and to safeguard future herd methods, and risk factors with your private presented; put simply -if on your holding, fertility…. your livelihood! Vet, especially if you operate a “closed” all eligible cattle must be tested. herd. Quarantining bulls before use, and For further information please telephone disease testing whilst in isolation, is good 685844.

Fluke Monitoring: An Update. By Richard Ashworth, Veterinary Officer

The fluke incidence reporting scheme has information. Cases of old liver damage snails and intermediate fluke stages. been operating for about six months. With due to fluke are identified by the In summary, if you currently dose for the combined efforts of Meat Inspectors, Inspectors, but these cases are not fluke: continue to do so at the correct Government Graders, and the Meat Plant recorded as active “fluke” cases, as they time of year. If you have not acted on the administrative staff, this has proved a very indicate that on farm treatments have information from the scheme: start doing successful initiative. Feedback from been effective. (The old liver damage still so – ask your Vet for advice on the best producers has been positive, and enabled shows as scarring). Set treatment will treatment regime. them to start effective target treatment. have prevented more severe damage, This will doubtless have given rewards to killed flukes (ending fluke eggs being Include Fluke treatment in your Health Plan. industry, producer profitability, and animal shed), and helped to reduce pasture For further information please telephone health generally. infestation in the long term. If you are a 685844. producer who has treated, remember Both cattle and sheep “active” fluke cases areas of your pasture will still harbour are now reported to the producer for

Agri-News October 2009 11

New Chief Veterinary Officer

The Department is pleased to announce Stuart qualified with a Bachelor in that Stuart Jaques has been appointed as Veterinary Science from Bristol University in the island’s new Chief Veterinary Officer. 1985 and began work for Stuart Angus in Stuart’s promotion into this position follows Ramsey. In May 1990, Stuart joined Isle of the retirement of Eamon O’Donnell in June. Man Government as a Government Veterinary Officer (GVO). He has taken Speaking about his appointment Stuart said: various responsibilities in the past 19 years, “This is a tremendous opportunity to build most recently leading in the field of on the achievements of the Division in tuberculosis and other notifiable diseases. Ambassador for the Royal Veterinary disease control. I’m looking forward to During his time as a GVO, Stuart also spent College Distance Learning Programme. discussing the future of animal health and several years as Vice Chairman of the Stuart’s wife, Sue, is Manx and works as a welfare with both the farming community Government Officer’s Association (GOA). schoolteacher at Dhoon School. They have and general public; in order to assist the Last year, Stuart completed a MSc in three children who are all educated in Department in producing a policy that Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Ramsey. Both Sue and Stuart are part of relates our changing perceptions of with Distinction and was awarded the Shennaghys Jiu, “Traditions Today”, the animals and their welfare to profitable Pfizer Award for gaining the highest Ramsey Easter festival that provides the food production.” overall marks. Earlier this year, Stuart learning and advancement of traditional was invited to become a Student music and dance for young people. 2.2% Pay Increase for Agricultural Workers By Nigel Taylor, Higher Executive Officer, Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division

The Agricultural Wages Board for the Isle and intended to be effective from 1st Aaron joins Juan Hargraves and Alan of Man met on Tuesday 8th September to November 2009. The Regulations Radcliffe, as Employees’ Representatives discuss its Order and Regulations for 2009. increase maximum deductions from pay on the Board. for tied cottages, similarly, by 2.2%. The Order covers the minimum rates of Full details of the rates set through the pay and holidays for all agricultural and The Board is very pleased to announce 2009 Order and Regulations may be horticultural workers on the Island. the appointment of Aaron Watterson of obtained by ringing Nigel on 801263 or Following public consultation, the Board Ballacosnahan, Patrick, as a Member. email [email protected]. has agreed to increase rates by 2.2% effective from 1st October 2009. This is in line with the award made by the New calf tags Agricultural Wages Board for England 2009/2010 calf tags are now and Wales, and raises the adult available for collection from DAFF, Ordinary Grade worker rate on the Top floor, Rose House, Island to £6.40 per hour. 51-59 Circular Road, Douglas. The Board also made Regulations, to For further information please be considered by Tynwald in October, telephone 685616.

Sawdust Offer & Free Wood Peelings

By Peter Birch, Sawmill Manager

Sawdust produced at St Johns Sawmill is Earlier this year we were able to offer going to collect to ensure we have a available to Farmers, at a greatly reduced Farmers trailer loads of free wood peelings. vehicle available to load them. price. Normally sold at £7.99 per bag the We are again able to make this offer for a Peelings are ideal for muddy areas, or sawdust is available, to Farmers who have short term only, restricted to 2 loads per where straw needs to be changed an account with DAFF, at just £4.50 per month. This will ensure as many Farmers as frequently. For more information, please bag plus VAT. possible can benefit, and will be available contact the Sawmill office on 695719. The sawdust is produced from local grown only until stocks have been cleared. Manx timber and packed in 100ltr heavy Farmers must have their own transport. duty polythene bags. Please telephone the sawmill, before 12

Market Trends For the first time an independent commentary has been supplied by Richard King, Business Research Consultant, Andersons. Details of how the graphs have been calculated can be found at: www.gov.im/daff/News/agricultural.xml The dashed lines show estimated prices for the weeks that accurate data is unavailable for. Cattle IoM Prices for the beginning of lamb meat production following year on Milk The IoM milk price for July is 1.48p/l September show a drop for all classes of year flock reductions, and a favourable less than that received for the same month cattle. Prices for clean cattle are now exchange rate, has helped the lamb price in 2008. In comparison, the UK farmgate about 8p/kg lower than at the same time appreciably. IoM prices are currently milk price for July is 2.83p/l less and the NI last year. In general both IoM and GB running at about 2p/kg less than GB levels. milk price is 5.27p/l less than at the same prices have remained relatively steady time in 2008. After cuts in the first half of Pig Following the significant price hikes over the last twelve months, after the 2009, prices seem to be stabilising. Prices seen last summer, markets have remained increases seen last summer. Tight supplies actually rose in June and July, the first time relatively stable over the last twelve months. and a favourable exchange rate for export since their peak in November 2008; albeit Current values are running at a similar level should help to maintain levels. GB clean as a result of seasonality. The fall in milk to last year. IoM prices appear to be stable, cattle prices are currently in the region of price has been driven by the collapse in whereas GB prices, after an increase in the 26-27p/kg higher than IoM values, with world dairy prices; although there are signs first half of the year, have started to fall as young bulls in the region of 35p/kg more. that these may be recovering these will the lower EU pig meat price starts to have need to be maintained for a number of Lamb Both IoM and GB prices have an effect. There is some concern that GB months before farmgate prices improve. followed the usual seasonal price retailers’ commitment to domestic sourcing On the upside, inputs have decreased fluctuations, with prices running at similar is starting to erode; faced with the considerably; feed costs look set to be levels. Prices this year remain higher than consistently high price premium of GB pork lower this winter and fertiliser prices have at the same point in 2008. A reduction in over continental values. reduced considerably from their peak.

Contact Information Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Rose House, 51 – 59 Circular Road, Douglas IM1 1AZ Telephone: 685835 Fax: 685851 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.gov.im/daff If you would prefer to receive an electronic link, rather than paper copies through the post, please let Frank Harrison know by phoning 687304 or email [email protected]

Agri-News October 2009