MYPATH New online tool for Continuing Professional Development

NATIONAL CENTRE FOR LANDWARDS 2012 PRECISION FARMING CONFERENCE House of Commons launch for new Events details and speaker Harper Adams facility information

IAgrE Professional Journal www.iagre.org Volume 67, Number 1 Spring 2012 Biosystems Engineering

Biosystems Engineering, owned by IAgrE, and the Official Scientific Journal of EurAgEng, is published monthly with The Managing Editor of Biosystems Engineering, Dr Steve Parkin, has kindly summarised some of the papers published in the last occasional special issues. three issues which he thinks may be of interest to IAgrE members

Biosystems Engineering Volume 110, Issue 3, November 2011, Pages 247-252 Design and testing of an intra-row mechanical weeding machine for maize Cordill, T.E. Grift, FL Smidth, Spokane, WA, USA Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Illinois, USA The object was to non-specifically remove weed plants within the row by enabling dual tine carriers to engage the soil whilst circumventing the maize stalks. The maize stalks were distinguished from the weeds and maize leaves by utilising 1) the typical vertical quasi-cylindrical stalk of the maize plant, 2) the limited range of maize stalk diameters, and 3) by assuming constant plant spacing. To assess the performance of the machine, a video was taken during field plot experiments. This allowed determination of the number of plants that were "fatally damaged" after inadvertently being pushed over by the imple- ment. This was assumed to cause the plant to die, or "minimally damaged" where the implement merely touched the plant, when the plant was assumed to survive. Experiments were carried out using three arrangements being 1) three rows without weeds, 2) three rows with broadleaf weeds (simulated by planting soybean) and 3) three rows with grassy weeds. The percentage of plants that were fatally damaged was 8.8%, 23.7%, and 23.7% in cases 1, 2, 3 respectively.

Volume 110, Issue 4, December 2011, Pages 363-377 A methodology for model-based greenhouse design: Part 1, Reduced subscriptions are available to A greenhouse climate model for a broad range of designs and members of IAgrE. climates B.H.E. Vanthoor, C. Stanghellini, E.J. van Henten, P.H.B. de To view the full article list of the current Visser With the aim of developing a model-based method to design greenhouses for edition, visit a broad range of climatic and economic conditions, a greenhouse climate model has been developed and validated. This model describes the effects of www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/15375110 the outdoor climate and greenhouse design on the indoor greenhouse climate. For use in a greenhouse design method that focused on the optimisation of a For further details of the depth and breadth set of design elements, the model should fulfil the following three require- of articles accepted for publication in ments: 1) predict the temperature, vapour pressure and CO2 concentration of the greenhouse air, with sufficient accuracy for a wide variety of greenhouse Biosystems Engineering, visit designs under varying climate conditions, 2) include the commonly used greenhouse construction parameters and climate conditioning equipment, and www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journalbibliographicinfo. 3) consist of a set of first order differential equations to allow the use of ordi- cws_home/622795/description#bibliographicinfo nary differential equation solvers. The model is considered to be sufficiently accurate and sufficiently generic to be used for developing a model-based For details of the preferential rates for greenhouse design method. members for subscriptions to both the Volume 111, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 57-63 paper and electronic versions of Performance of an agricultural tractor fitted with rubber tracks G. Molari, L. Bellentani, A. Guarnieri, M. Walker, E. Sedoni Biosystems Engineering, visit the IAgrE Department of Agricultural Economics and Engineering, Bologna University, Italy, CNH Italia S.p.a., 41100 Modena, Italy website at Recently, rubber belt tracks have become a notable solution for agri- cultural tractors, because they unite tractive performance and lower http://www.iagre.org/bioeng.shtml soil compaction with a better trafficability. Triangular rubber belt sys- tems have been developed to replace the conventional wheeled con- figuration found on combine harvesters, and these can also be used on tractors. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the performance of these solutions on a standard agricultural tractor. In particular, a tractor equipped with standard tyres, water-ballasted tyres, half- tracks, and fully-tracked was analysed. Drawbar power tests on asphalt and on soil were carried out, and compaction tests were per- formed on soil. The results show a better tractive efficiency and a reduced soil compaction for the solution with four rubber tracks with respect to the others. In addition, a reduction of the tractive efficiency with the increasing of the slip was highlighted in the half-track solu- tion caused by an unfavourable weight distribution on the axles. The Professional Journal for Engineers, Scientists and Technologists in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Environment and Amenity

VOLUME 67 Number 1 2012 EDITORIAL THIS ISSUE NATIONAL CENTRE FOR Joined-uup thinking 12 PRECISION FARMING Having had its official launch in February at the House of WE all have favourite sayings, particu- Addressing the recent NFU Conference, Commons, Harper Adams larly in business, which when analysed Peter Kendall said, “We have to get University College’s new facility is can seem completely barmy! innovative solutions out of the lab and set to become a hub for smart into the field”. He is right, scientists Utterances like ‘wash its face’; ‘run it up technology expertise. often work on finding solutions to spe- the flagpole’; ‘low-hanging fruit’; ‘blue- cific issues, the trick is to then apply sky thinking’; ‘singing from the same IAgrE’s PROFESSIONAL them to practical applications across a 18 DEVELOPMENT TOOL hymn sheet’, ‘managing expectations’, much wider field - and that needs coor- MYPATH ‘bringing our A-game’ . . and my particu- dination and vision. Dr Mark Cooper on keeping an lar favourite ‘ . . ‘putting lipstick on a electronic record of your pig’! - really mean nothing. All of which is also a very good reason Continuing Professional to attend the IAgrE Conference at Development We all use them when common English Stoneleigh on 10 May which is taking a words or phrases would surely do just as different approach this year by asking LANDWARDS CONFERENCE well. 17 2012 delegates to consider how they would A preview of the 10th May con- However, the phrase ‘joined-up thinking’ counteract the effects of “The Perfect ference for scientists, engineers is a description that can really do what it Storm” of food shortages, water supply and managers which takes place says on the tin (there, cliche-itis gets you and energy resources. at Stoneleigh Park, including in the end!). speaker profiles and full If ever there is a need for ‘joined-up programme. The recent launch of the National thinking’ it is in solving this challenge on Centre for Precision Farming to be which humanity itself depends - and as THE ALTOS STORY based at Harper Adams is the response such, specialist bodies including IAgrE 20 Richard Smalley FIAgrE explains the history and development of for the need for ‘joined-up thinking’ in have a vital role to play in future plan- the Altos machine. the field of agricultural engineering ning. where fast-moving innovations in manu- Look forward to facturing, mechatronics, hydraulics, data seeing you there! management and so on must be brought Biosystems Engineering ...... 2 together. News Update ...... 4-9 President’s musings ...... 11 None of these specialised fields can IAgrE Council meeting...... 16 operate in isolation, they have to be Profile: Pro Technician...... 21 applied to the process of providing Wakeham’s World ...... 24-25 methods for working smarter and faster Membership Matters ...... 26-35 if the growing world population is to be CHRIS BIDDLE fed over the coming decades. Editor [email protected] The views expressed in Landwards editorial are those of the Editor, and do not necessarily reflect those of the Institution

PRODUCTION TEAM Landwards is published quarterly by: IAgrE is a founder IAgrE EDITOR: Chris Biddle The Bullock Building, University Way, member of Tel: 44 (0) 1722 429570 (direct line) Cranfield, Bedford MK43 0GH EurAgEng, a [email protected] Telephone: + 44 (0) 1234 750876 licensed body of the Fax: + 44 (0) 1234 751319 SUB-EDITOR: Steve Gibbs E-mail: [email protected] Engineering Tel: 44 (0) 1722 429573 www.iagre.org Council and a [email protected] President founder constituent Peter N Leech IEng, FIAgrE Chief Executive and Secretary of the Society for Christopher R Whetnall CEnv IEng FIAgrE MemASABE the Environment DESIGNED BY:

Nelson Publishing Ltd The views and opinions expressed in individual contributions are not those necessarily those of IAgrE or the Editor. Landwards is compiled from information received by IAgrE, but 25A New Street, Salisbury, Wilts SP1 2PH no responsibility can be accepted by the governing Council, the Publishers or the Editor in respect of any errors or omissions. The Editor does reserve the right to edit any material sent to the journal for publication. Material from this publication may be quoted or reported on condition that full credit is given to Landwards and to the author together with the Tel: 44 (0) 1722 414245 date of publication and volume number. In the interest of factual reporting, reference to trade names and proprietry products may be inevitable. No endorsement of the named Fax: 44 (0) 1722 414561 products or manufacturers is intended and no adverse criticism is implied of similar products which are not mentioned.. www.nelsonpublishing.co.uk © Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) ISSN 1363-8300

Spring 2012 Landwards 3 NEWSUPDATE

New Head of International at Ivel Award for Fuel-Guard Engineering Council IAgrE sponsored honour presented at LAMMA show The Engineering Council has COUNTY Durham-based removing and gently announced the appointment of Fuel-Guard, scooped the Ivel washing the element Katy Turff as Head of Award for its Fuel with clean fuel. International. Decontaminator at this year’s Judged against 13 LAMMA. other entries, the The Ivel Award award, spon- judging panel thought sored by IAgrE, is given for the that the Fuel product or innovation which Decontaminator has the most positive impact on product range offered the environment. a simple, cost effec- The Fuel Decontaminator is tive addition to any a simple, one step unit that will diesel engine fuel remove up to 95% of solid con- line-up to remove taminants and 99.9% visible water and foreign water, including emulsified matter from the fuel. water that may be present in the The range covers L-RR: Ian Currie, managing director of Katy joins the organisation fuel. Using an entirely new, engines up to 1200 hp Fuel-GGuard is presented with the Ivel from the Institution of unique, filter design, the system and by demonstration Award by Christopher Whetnall, CEO of Engineering and Technology will eliminate the problem of offered operators a IAgrE (IET) where she worked for nine water and particulate contami- verifiable monitoring years, most recently as nation in fuel. approach, simple to understand were thoroughly interviewed Programme Manager, delivering No replacement of filter ele- and operate, thus ensuring con- during the show by a panel of the Institution’s strategic objec- ments or cartridges are taminants were easily removed. senior engineers. This was a tives relating to member required, as the Fuel The product offers a major con- difficult award to win and we engagement. Decontaminator performs this tribution to ensuring efficient are pleased that the judges Katy will be building on the function with a reusable life- fuel combustion that benefits recognised and understood the work in progress to shift the time filter element. It can be the whole environment. major environmental benefits emphasis of international easily cleaned without the use Ian Currie, managing direc- this unique cleanable filter sys- agreements from academic to of tools when blocked, by tor of Fuel Guard said, “We tem can offer.” competence-based standards, to ensure that all Engineering Council registrants can benefit from international recognition, Students also awarded by IAgrE whether they have achieved their professional qualifications TWO students from Coleg Sir been introduced to encourage through a standard or individ- Gâr’s agricultural campus at and recognise innovation and ual route. Gelli Aur Coleg carried off originality by students of agri- “Engineering is a global pro- IAgrE’s student and safety cultural engineering and land- fession so it follows that interna- awards, also presented at based technology. Projects tional recognition of our profes- LAMMA. submitted for this award must sional qualifications is vital for First introduced last year, demonstrate the benefits of engineers, technicians, their the safety award is presented practical project work under- employers and clients,” said to a student whose project is taken as part of their courses. Katy. “There are still a lot of aimed at improving a machine For a project to be a winner it barriers to international mobility or process and has demon- must also be innovative and and it makes sense for the strated a sound approach to demonstrate commercial Engineering Council to take the health and safety. This year’s potential. lead in tackling these on behalf award went to Gareth Hamer “The increasing necessity Joshua Brown left, winner of of, and in collaboration with, for his excellent project devel- for farmers to become more the IAgrE Student Project the professional engineering oping a power assisted sheep aware of their neighbours’ Award and Gareth Hamer institutions (PEIs). As many PEIs turnover crate. environmental concerns, not right winner of the IAgrE look to grow membership and Alan Plom a member of the to mention the need to avoid Safety Award registration of members outside judging panel commented cross contamination, means the UK we must also be ready “Gareth adopted a sound risk- that agricultural machines, ticularly impressed with the to exploit the opportunities this assessment based approach to particularly those involved in way in which Joshua had presents to increase awareness design. The novel element of waste disposal, need to be defined a real problem, and recognition of UK-SPEC, this idea is that it is solar pow- kept clean,” said Richard defined a possible solution whilst ensuring that standards ered and I believe worthy of Robinson an award judge. and built and tested a proto- are maintained.” including in the Health & “Joshua Brown’s project type of his design. It was Katy replaces Dr Jim Birch, Safety Executive’s Gallery of addresses this requirement recognised that this was an who has retired after eleven Manual Handling Solutions.” and, with development, should area that had received little years in the role. During this Joshua Brown was awarded be a very useful aid to redress- attention in the past and time Dr Birch worked success- the IAgrE Student Project ing the ‘Dirty Farmer’ image,” where there was scope to fully with the PEIs to adopt a Award for his slurry pipe added Richard. make a real difference in prac- collaborative approach to inter- cleaner design. This award has The Awards Panel were par- tical operation national issues. Engineers respond National Centre for to downgrading of qualifications Precision Farming launched FOLLOWING the announce- ment by Government that it MORE than 140 guests, includ- smart machinery that would be downgrading more ing MPs, engineering and farm- might challenge accepted than 3,000 vocational qualifi- ing experts, and research staff, production methods. cations, Stephen Tetlow, Chief attended the launch of the “That is where the Executive of the Institution of National Centre for Precision National Centre for Mechanical Engineers (pictured) Farming (NCPF) at the House Precision Farming hopes responded. of Commons on Wednesday to make a difference. By He said, “It is (February 29). bringing together repre- welcome that The launch took place during sentatives of the agricul- engineering a reception in the Terrace tural engineering sector, diplomas will Pavilion, overlooking the the farming community Julian Sturdy MP still count Thames, hosted by Julian and academics from a towards GCSE Sturdy MP, an alumnus of variety of disciplines and insti- Mr Sturdy, MP for York league tables, Harper Adams University tutions, including our own crop Outer, opened his speech by but worrying College. Harper Adams is and livestock scientists, the cen- saying that there are three big that they will be home to the NCPF, and will tre will aim to stimulate debate, issues facing the UK, and rest of downgraded to count for just facilitate the knowledge innovation and understanding the world, over the next few one GCSE instead of five. exchange required to bring as we all make the transition to decades: food security, water “An engineering diploma “smart” agricultural machinery smarter farming, building on security and energy security, takes about 20 hours study time into wider and more productive existing knowledge and ensure and that they were interlinked. a week so this downgrade will use in UK, and global, farming. that we have a means to collab- “If we are going to tackle deter schools from offering this Principal Dr David Llewellyn orate on strategic issues. these issues we really have to subject. explained, “The agricultural Dr Llewellyn added, “As innovate. Innovation is the key “It is vital that we encourage engineering sector is moving Peter Kendall said at last week’s that’s why I am delighted about more young engineering talent quickly in areas of advanced NFU Conference, ‘we want to today’s event, which is all about in this country but this decision manufacturing, mechatronics, get innovative solutions out to innovation, and I am glad to be does the reverse. Government hydraulics, data management, the field from the lab.’. We a part of that. The UK is built must either urgently reassess and in exploring novel tech- don’t want it to be a talking on the back of innovation and this decision or say what it is niques, but these efforts need shop, but rather a place where we have to become the world going to do instead to put engi- co-ordination, routes to expert- agricultural engineers and leaders in this. I think that what neering back on the map in ise in research and develop- famers can be brought together Harper Adams is starting here schools.” ment and, dare I say it, a greater to actively develop expertise in today gives us that great oppor- LANTRA also issued a state- understanding amongst those the use of advanced technolo- tunity.” ment saying, “We believe that who have to use increasingly gies.” For more on the NCPF see page 12 high quality vocational learning is essential, complementing general education and enabling schools to provide a broad cur- Report confirms engineering central to economic growth riculum which meets the needs of individual learners. THE Institution of parents and teachers to Vocational subjects do pro- Agricultural Engineers has promote the importance vide a context for learning key welcomed the results of a of subjects such as subjects such as English and study undertaken by physics and mathematics Maths which supports young EngineeringUK that reveals, to primary age children. people develop essential skills. not only is engineering central It predicts that by the sector where technical teach- They also are a high quality to ensuring economic growth, time today’s primary school ing posts in both the FE and addition to the curriculum and but it also plays a major role pupils are of working age, the private sector have been diffi- support progression into further in helping to tackle global UK will need over two million cult to fill. vocational and higher educa- challenges, such as climate additional engineers to meet “Salary levels within the FE tion as well into as change, health, food security, demand. Thus primary age sector are not high enough to Apprenticeships. biodiversity, water security, children need to have devel- attract candidates and even “Lantra and land-based busi- population and energy securi- oped sufficient numeracy the higher salaries offered by nesses are keen to ensure that ty. skills to enable them to choose the private sector are not the 14-19 education system in The UK engineering sector maths and physics subjects attracting the right calibre of England equips young people generated £1.15 trillion in for further study. individuals with up to date not only with a broad range of turnover in the year ending Chris Whetnall, IAgrE skills sets. education and skills essential March 2010, nearly 25 per Chief Executive officer said, “Agriculture and agricultur- for the world of work but that it cent of turnover of all UK “The report further highlights al engineering are forward- also provides opportunities for businesses. It also employs 5.6 the fact that there has been a looking sectors. If we are to young people to contextualise million people across 551,520 significant fall (>10%) in the meet the challenges of climate their learning and gain experi- different businesses. number of technical teachers change and food security we ence within the sector, helping The report - The state of in Further Education. This must act now to address these them in the longer term to engineering 2012 - calls for confirms the experience in our issues,” concluded Chris. make their further education and career choices.” NEWSUPDATE

IAgrE backs proposed Festival Cutting Edge Training wins of Farming & Food LANTRA Awards Centre status THE aspirations of a group of like minded farmers to hold a CUTTING Edge Training, a have worked festival to celebrate the best of division of Ransomes Jacobsen, incredibly hard to British farming, food and coun- has been granted LANTRA prepare and deliver tryside, is welcomed by the Awards Centre status, comple- relevant and perti- IAgrE. menting their recognition by nent training to the “IAgrE gives its full support to other training organisations and grounds care indus- the project,” said Chris bodies. try. Whetnall IAgrE CEO. “Over the LANTRA Awards is a “Although we are years the gap between the nationally recognised Awarding a division of farmer and consumer has Body approved to develop and Ransomes widened and this event will help accredit qualifications such as Jacobsen, we can to educate the general public NVQ/SVQ and VRQ. They deliver training and and showcase how advanced also provide national qualifica- certification for agricultural technology has tions in a range of subject areas, operators and tech- become and how it is being as well as technical awards and nicians on equip- applied to achieve efficient, sus- customised provision to accred- ment from any tainable, food production.” it in-house training. manufacturer. In The organisers, Farming in Ian Mitchell, a senior trainer fact, a high percent- Ian Mitchell with the LANTRA Awards Centre the Park Ltd, want to challenge with Cutting Edge Training age of our training accreditation for Cutting Edge Training every county in the UK to bring said, “We are a City and Guilds is with organisa- to Hyde Park an acre’s worth of NVQ training centre, NPTC tions that don’t use help us further to deliver the exhibits that will exemplify the assessors, BAGMA installation equipment manufactured in provision of specialised, sector best of food, farming and coun- trainers and now with this latest Ipswich! specific training that meets the tryside from their area. accreditation, a LANTRA “We are delighted with this needs of employers and of “The end of the Royal Show Awards centre. The team here latest recognition which will learners.” has left British farmers without a flagship event to promote their produce and educate the gen- eral public about where food comes from and how it is pro- Myerscough launch ‘My Apprentice 2012’ duced,” added Chris. Organisations such as AEA, Campaign dedicated to increasing opportunities BBSRC, JCB, John Deere and On 20th January, Nigel an award-winning the NFU have also committed Haworth (Chef and Lancashire sausage made by support to the event. The event businessman), Ben Wallace MP Myerscough College’s is also supported by FACE, a (MP for Wyre and North Advanced Apprentice farming education charity who Preston), and Edwin Booth for 2011 award win- believe the event will give chil- (Myerscough College Patron ner, Daniel Standing, sector within 100 days, with a dren from London’s 2,250 and Chairman of E H Booth & of Honeywell’s Farm Shop in particular focus on targeting the schools a rare opportunity to Co Ltd), attended a business Woodplumpton, Preston. land based and sports indus- see the food and farming story breakfast at Myerscough Current and former tries. live and close up. College to officially launch and Apprentices attended the The ‘100 in 100’ campaign The four day festival will take show their support ‘My launch to share their experi- was designed to bring together place from Thursday 26th Apprentice 2012’ - Myerscough ences of the Apprenticeship training providers, public and September to Sunday 29th College's new Apprenticeship programmes run by private sector business leaders, September 2013. Entry will be campaign for 2012. Myerscough College. the National Apprenticeship free and it will not be a profit- 'My Apprentice 2012' is a Ben Wallace MP gave a Service and local media to work making event. year-long campaign dedicated speech discussing the in partnership to deliver a sus- The Duke of Edinburgh writes to increasing the number of Government's commitment to tained campaign to increase in a brochure sent to prospec- Apprenticeship opportunities increasing high quality Apprenticeship opportunities tive supporters, “The last time across both public and private Apprenticeship opportunities, and placements. the Festival of Food and sectors, with a specific focus on providing the audience with Myerscough’s Principal, Ann Farming was organised in targeting the land based details of the Government’s Turner, said, “With the launch London was in 1989, and it (Agriculture, Horticulture and £775 million injection of funds of ‘My Apprentice 2012’ was a huge success. Now over Sportsturf) and sports indus- to increase Apprenticeships Myerscough College is demon- 20 years later, it would seem tries. The launch was extremely and job-relevant training. strating a commitment to about time to repeat such a well attended by employers The business breakfast was increasing Apprenticeship venture for the benefit of a from across the private and used to launch the College’s opportunities across the North whole new generation of urban public sectors. first major ‘My Apprentice 2012’ West and nationally in the land consumers.” Guests were treated to a full event - a ‘100 in 100’ days cam- based and sports industries. The next task for the organis- English breakfast in paign. Myerscough College will “It was wonderful that so ers, Mantaplan, is to raise funds Myerscough College's brand attempt to generate and secure many businesses took the time and gather wider support for an new ‘Richmond’s Restaurant’, 100 Apprenticeship placements to attend and show their sup- event that will cost an estimated including the chance to sample across the private and public port.” £2.75m to £3.1m to stage.

6 Landwards Spring 2012 Further Education is the key CEO IN 1971, the Privy Council approved the the value that Technicians bring to application of the Council of Engineering society. The resulting Technician VIEW Institutions (CEI) (a pre-cursor to what is Council has developed a ‘Professional now the Engineering Council) to establish Technician Commitment’ and has got there before me . . . namely a commit- a composite register of professional qualifi- asked that key stakeholders (employers ment to properly resource and support cations, namely Chartered Engineer, and professional bodies) sign up to this those working in the Further Education sec- Technician Engineer (now Incorporated commitment. tor. Let’s not beat about the bush, we will Engineer) and Engineering Technician. In short, the commitment asks that we all never produce the seed corn for adequate IAgrE immediately signed up to this con- support the following aims: numbers of professional technicians until cept and Engineering Technicians began to 1.Raising the professional status and the FE sector are able to attract sufficient be registered by IAgrE and we have been esteem of technicians. numbers of teachers/trainers/instructors, dedicated to ensuring that this register has 2.Ensuring that there is an adequate provi- call them what you will, with the skills been given our support ever since. sion of career opportunities for techni- required to deliver the latest technology at Now some 41 years later, Government cians both now and to meet future skills the highest levels. seems to have woken up to the fact that needs. With many sectors also seeking to satisfy whilst Chartered and Incorporated 3.Strengthening the infrastructure that the demand for skilled trainers from ex- Engineers are important, so too are the underpins the professional development military personnel (the Military pension Engineering Technicians who should be of technicians. helping to supplement the meagre salaries making up the bulk of the professionally 4.Increasing the size, transferability and on offer) there are clearly insufficient registered workforce. Army/Navy/AirForce people to go round Since the advent of the EngTech register, diversity of the pool of professional tech- nicians across all sectors. particularly as BT and Network Rail are the statistics have shown too many (regis- seeking hundreds of such people. So watch out for the promotion of new tered) chiefs and not enough (registered) So Messrs Gove, Cable and Cameron, if branding for professional technicians. Indians with an inverted professional pyra- you are asking the engineering/manufac- Of course, we should now be asking mid . . . not a very stable situation! turing sectors to be the mainstay, indeed - Government in turn to make a commit- Early in 2010, Lord Sainsbury proposed saviours of the ‘new’ British economy, that ment to those involved with the initial train- to Government that a council be estab- means more support for Further Education ing of those who are to become profes- lished across the disciplines of Engineering, in order to attract the best people. sional technicians. Yes, I can see you’ve all Science, Health and IT to better promote Simple really! Christopher Whetnall

Attention all aspiringprofessionals! Professional Registration through IAgrE Being a member of IAgrE is just part of being a professional. Adding a professional qualification to your name is a further important statement which sets you apart from others. In addition to administering the Landbased Technician Accreditation schemes (LTA and LTAMEA) on behalf of our sector, IAgrE has licences from the Society for the Environment and the Engineering Council to award the following professional qualifications to those who are suitably experienced and/or qualified: Chartered Environmentalist CEnv Engineering Technician EngTech Incorporated Engineer IEng Chartered Engineer CEng One or more of these professional qualifications after your name: x Establishes proven knowledge, experience and x Establishes that your professional credentials are on a par with commitment to professional standards, and other Chartered professionals such as Chartered Scientists and enhances employability. Chartered Accountants x Demonstrates that you have been judged as x Provides you with international recognition being competent by your peers

To find out more about obtaining professional qualifications through IAgrE, email us at [email protected], visit our website or call our Membership department on 01234 750876 www.iagre.org

Spring 2012 Landwards 7 NEWSUPDATE

IAgrE and AEA BAGMA and LANTRA plan future projects support food Will establish land-based business centre FOLLOWING the news that mation, developing a pro- production Lantra has secured a £2.9 mil- fessional standard frame- lion investment to develop and work, and supporting seminar support the skills and profes- employment entry and A ONE day seminar takes place sionalism of businesses in the progression through land- at the Institution of Mechanical land-based sector, it met with based industries. Engineers, London on March BAGMA (division of BIRA) on John Godden said, 22 entitled 'Reducing fuel costs 15 December, to discuss work- “This is a great step for- in food processing', sponsored ing collaboratively on future ward for Lantra and the by AEA and IAgrE. projects to support the Land- land-based engineering L-RR: John Godden, Lantra; Alan based Engineering industry. industry. In the future Hawkins, BIRA; Peter Martin, Lantra; Peter Martin, Lantra’s Chief Lantra will strive to deliv- Keith Christian, BAGMA Executive, and John Godden, er a broad spectrum of Lantra’s Industry Partnership services and solutions Manager met with Alan needed by today’s land-based three projects are the beginning Hawkins, CEO of BIRA and engineering businesses and pro- of a new way that Lantra will Keith Christian, BAGMA’s fessionals. We are delighted to work to support the sector, pro- Director General. The first be working with leading organi- viding solutions to help busi- funded project involves creating sations, such as BIRA and nesses take ownership of their a land-based business centre BAGMA.” professionalism and develop- with business support and infor- Peter Martin said: “These ment.” Event overview: Demonstrating ways to reduce your fuel costs using renewable •SIR Richard Butler, President of the NFU from 1979 to 1986, died at the end of and recoverable energy this January at the age of 83. event will outline the potential Paying tribute to Sir Richard, the current President of the NFU Peter Kendall said, cost savings and how to “Sir Richard Butler piloted the NFU through one of the most turbulent periods in its achieve them. history. He had to contend with growing controversy over the EEC’s food mountains, Defra will discuss the incen- the unfairness of the so-called ‘Green Pound’, the introduction of milk quotas and the tives for investment and the passing of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. All this against a political backdrop which penalties for non-compliance was far from benign, given the opinions of the then recently elected Prime Minister while industry experts will show Margaret Thatcher about both subsidies to farmers and the EEC. how these methods have “It was thanks not least to his shrewdness, intelligence, diplomatic skills and the enor- already been implemented in mous respect that he commanded among those around him that the NFU and British the food processing sector. farmers emerged stronger than ever from an incredibly difficult period.”

Benefits of attendance: • Hear from Defra about what incentives are available for Student DVD promotes professionalism investing in alternative energy and energy efficiency A TEAM of students from ble to other parts of the • Realise the cost of non-com- Harper Adams University world,” said Chris Whetnall pliance with the College has created an 8 Chief Executive IAgrE. Government’s carbon reduc- minute DVD to promote the Peter Leech, President of tion initiatives importance of professionalism IAgrE who introduces the • Discover methods to utilise in developing a career in the DVD said, “Professional qual- currently wasted energy landbased industry. ifications can take many forms benefit of belonging to a pro- • Engage directly with manu- Supported by IAgrE, the from Eng Tech all the way fessional Institution such as factures of alternative energy DVD looks at how young peo- thorough to chartered engi- IAgrE is that it demonstrates technology ple can achieve the various neer. It is important at all lev- you have attained certain min- Who should attend? levels of professional qualifi- els, important for the employ- imum standards of education Process industry consultants, cations required to further er and important for the cus- and training. Membership is energy managers, chief engi- their careers. tomer you are working for. an internationally recognised neers, design engineers, main- “Acquiring a professional Employers need to feel confi- professional qualification in tenance engineers, utilities engi- qualification identifies you dent in your ability to do the its own right,” added Chris neers and managers, project have competences that job and professional qualifica- Whetnall. engineers, independent consul- employers value. It shows your tions give employers that con- The DVD includes glimpses tancy practitioners, chief execu- competence and commitment fidence. of professionals at all levels tives, chief accountants, compa- to professionalism and In addition, by developing within our industry and covers ny secretaries, facilities man- demonstrates you have been the LTA schemes, industry in detail the differences and agers. assessed by other profession- demonstrates the importance requirements for each level of Book now or view the full pro- als working in your area of of having a series of stepping professional accreditation gramme at: expertise. It also shows that stones for a career path.” from Eng Tech to Chartered your competence may be com- “Membership to IAgrE for Engineer as well as Chartered tinyurl.com/7yee7kl pared with standards applica- students is free and the major Environmentalist.

8 Landwards Spring 2012 Record apprentice numbers for Deere and Babcock Harper student A RECORD 45 apprentices have signed up to begin John wins Claas Deere's award winning Ag Tech, Turf Tech and Parts Tech scholarship apprenticeship programme for 2012. THE winner of the sixth CLAAS The programme is managed scholarship for Agricultural by training provider Babcock, Engineering is Harper Adams which delivers 10 per cent of all student, Yale Brewer. UK work-based apprenticeship Yale from Wilmington, East programmes. The John Deere Sussex, is studying BEng (Hons) apprenticeship is the first land- Agricultural Engineering at the based agricultural & turf University College in machinery programme with Shropshire. training delivered in the work- place, with assessment and Part of the new 2012 intake of John Deere guidance from Babcock’s team Ag Tech and Parts Tech apprentices at Langar of expert learning advisers. Additional training takes place gramme at the John Deere at the John Deere Training at Babcock's purpose built University (JDU). The appren- Centre in Langar, Nottingham, training facility at Ruddington, tices can go on to complete on two occasions over this two near Nottingham. three free courses in their year programme. Babcock’s training pro- fourth year to gain the John Commenting on the partner- L-RR: Alastair Tulloch, Yale gramme embeds John Deere's Deere Diploma and start their ship, Babcock’s managing direc- Brewer and Jane Broomhall core subjects into the standard adult training in JDU, using the tor, Alex Khan, said,” Since apprenticeship framework, in knowledge and skills gained entering into the partnership order to give both a Level 3 from the initial apprenticeship. just over a year ago, we have Thanks to the scholarship, he land-based qualification and a Babcock also provides a Parts already seen the development will now have his second and John Deere LTA Level 2 quali- Administration programme up of some exceptionally skilled fourth year fees covered and a fication within one learning to Level 3 (Advanced), with the apprentice engineers who will one-year sandwich placement programme. majority of training delivered be crucial to the future of the at the CLAAS Group headquar- This also links into John and assessed in the workplace. UK’s vital agricultural develop- ters at Harsewinkel. He will also Deere’s adult training pro- Additional training is provided ment.” be offered a summer placement with CLAAS UK. 21-year-old Yale, said, “I am delighted to have been award- New web service ed the scholarship and am New pre-Apprenticeship course looking forward to be working BUSINESSES are urged to ‘Love with CLAAS UK and in Apprenticeships’ this year as A NEW Pre-Apprenticeship Germany during my placement Lantra, Sector Skills Council for for Service Engineers course year. land-bbased and environmental has been devised by “I hope that during my time industries, has created a free Brooksby Melton College & with CLAAS, I will be able to website that puts interested Ben Burgess & Co. make a valuable contribution to employers in touch with learn- The programme is their continued global success. I ers, helping to bring an designed to give new starters would also like to take this Apprentice into their workplace. at Ben Burgess an industry opportunity to thank all those To help show businesses why taster while gaining a full Director at Ben Burgess & concerned at CLAAS and also they should get involved with level 1 Qualification. This Co said, “Developing this Harper Adams.” this programme, Lantra has cre- course is designed to bring new course with BMC, will Commenting on the standard ated special guidance at back old engineering values, help to keep Ben Burgess of entries this year Jane www.lantra.co.uk/love-aapprentices. develop welding skills, basic staff a step ahead of the Broomhall, Personnel Manager, These webpages have a unique care and use of hand tools competition and help to said, “We were delighted to match-mmaking service where and workshop equipment, improve our service to our meet the selected candidates businesses can find training practical Health and Safety, customers. Our new appren- and their high standards made providers that will be able to safe tractor driving skills, all tices will get a great ground- our decision very difficult.” help them get started. this alongside, life skills and ing at Brooksby in prepara- In selecting scholars, CLAAS In addition to linking busi- the benefit of being a part of tion for joining Deere’s in- takes into consideration not nesses with training providers, a college community. The house full 3-year Ag Tech only academic background, but Lantra’s specialist course also includes some apprentice programme.” also character, skills and enthu- Apprenticeship website also has project work and team Kevin Smith, Programme siasm for agricultural engineer- a host of tailored tools, such as building activities. Team manager at BMC said ing, as well as knowledge of factsheets, case studies and a BMC understand how “Working with Ben Burgess engineering and its require- special Apprenticeship issue of important great customer to develop this course con- ments within a business. Connect Magazine, all of which service is to Ben Burgess tinues to show the industry’s The judging panel included are free to read and download. and students will also be faith in our abilities to train Jane, Alastair Tulloch, Divisional In addition, visitors can learning about customer future generations of Manager - After Sales and review Apprenticeship frame- service. Service Engineers.” David Clare, Senior Lecturer in works and find out how to take Jimmy Lockhart, Service Electronics and Mechatronics at part in consultations. Harper Adams.

Spring 2012 Landwards 9 NEWSUPDATE

VI survey shows C&G Medal of Excellence for Brooksby student farmers want to BROOKSBY Melton College is and now, to celebrating the recent success play such a help wildlife of Level 3 Land Based Service huge part in Engineering student and IAgrE the family FARMERS want to help wildlife member, Charles Downing. business, A. and the vast majority believe Charles was awarded the City Downing that wildlife conservation is an & Guilds Medal of Excellence Agricultural integral part of their farming for his dedication, performance Engineers, system according to two surveys and overall achievement during is just fan- conducted by The Voluntary the time he spent at Brooksby. tastic. I was Initiative. At a special presentation event always told The VI surveys found that at Brooksby Hall, BMC that you 86% of farmers agree that envi- Governor Ian Bowler and City only get out C&G Medal of Excellence winner Charles Downing, ronmental management and & Guilds representative what you in the family business’s van wildlife conservation are impor- Rebecca Hollamby joined staff put in and tant parts of their farm manage- to congratulate Charles on his for me, this is what it is all said, “Charles really has worked ment. However farmers appear outstanding achievement. about.” hard and very much deserves not to accept the evidence of Rebecca said, “It is a pleasure Charles will now be attending recognition and praise for his farmland bird declines from to present such a remarkable the Lions Awards on 15 March efforts, to think how far he has national surveys. Only 10% of young man with this national at the Roundhouse in Camden come since he first came to farmers interviewed believe award and to offer huge con- where he will officially receive BMC is outstanding. His dedi- farmland birds, such as lap- gratulations from everyone at his award along with some of cation to the industry, the wings and skylarks, have City & Guilds.” the other medal winners from course and his family business declined in their area, whereas Charles explained, “I’ve other industry sectors across the has shown that he will be a valu- 52% thought they had always wanted to work with country. able contribution to the Land increased. tractors since I was very small BMC Tutor, Phil Spencer Based Sector in the future.” Similar results were found for populations of butterflies and bumblebees. Roughly half of the farmers who thought that farm- Honda award apprentices land birds had declined accept- ed that it was because of APPRENTICE graduates from Honda (UK)’s car, motorcycle and changes in farming practice. power equipment business areas took to the stage recently to receive The others thought that declines certificates confirming successful completion of Honda’s UK appren- were due to predation, distur- ticeship programme. bance or loss of farmland to The Class of 2011 were awarded their scrolls by Dave Hodgetts, development. Managing Director of Honda (UK). And in addition to the various spe- Andrew Stables Richard Winspear, RSPB agri- cial awards presented to apprentices who have excelled in their partic- cultural adviser and chairman ular fields, one extra special award - ‘Apprentice of the Year – Power of the VI biodiversity group, Equipment’ – was given to power equipment technician, Andrew Stables, from Henry Armer & Son in said, “The results of this survey Ulverston for his personal achievement, contribution to the dealership and individual outstanding provide a focus to help farmers achievement. and advisers understand what These awards are given to the apprentice who truly excels and nominations are taken from Honda’s they can do to increase popula- Apprentice Trainers, Apprentice Assessors and Apprentices Managers. Nominations are judged against tions of wild birds and other specific criteria and the overall winner is then identified by the Apprentice Programme Management wildlife indicators.” Team.

Definitive guide to becoming an Incorporated Engineer eBook TO assist in raising awareness respected and recognised our number of practising engi- and understanding of the research has shown that there neers not having applied, value of the Incorporated is still a general lack of under- despite meeting the relevant Engineer (IEng) professional standing about the value of standards of knowledge and qualification, the Engineering the IEng title. In reality, IEng competence to be eligible for Council has issued a new registration would allow many IEng. We hope that the intro- IEng eBook, which acts as a more engineers, working in a duction of the IEng eBook will definitive guide to becoming range of positions across help to overcome this.” registered as an IEng. every sector of engineering, to The eBook is the latest tool The eBook is available to reap the benefits of profes- created by the Engineering download from the sionally qualified status earlier Council as part of a cam- Engineering Council’s website, in their careers. paign, developed together at: www.engc.org.uk/ebook.aspx “Although we already have with the Professional Jon Prichard, CEO of the around 36,000 Incorporated Engineering Institutions (PEIs), Engineering Council said, Engineers on the Engineering to raise the profile of IEng, ers, the profession and society “While Chartered Engineer Council’s register, lack of and increase recognition of its as a whole. (CEng) status is already well awareness has led to a large value to individuals, employ-

10 Landwards Spring 2012 PRESIDENT’S MUSINGS Progress & change In his last Musings as IAgrE President, PETER LEECH reflects on the recent progress made in engagement with Government, and looks ahead to changes at IAgrE TWO words closely linked together. One the topic of science in our civilisation. Sir I can report that we did not make the doesn’t happen without the other. Paul explored the wonder of science and first goal of increasing membership by 15% In the months since the last Landwards how it enhances our culture and civilisa- but it has increased by just under 10% to there has been significant progress on tion. He also discussed how science can not 3,124 Members. I would of course count many fronts especially in the engagement only help solve the world’s big problems, that as a great success because it always of our industry with Government in rela- but also be harnessed to improve health, was an ambitious goal. As we all know if tion to food security issues and the vital quality of life and the strength of the UK’s you set ambitious goals you make good role that applied science and engineering economy. progress and this is indeed progress. in agricultural has to play. The need for He managed to skillfully describe how As far as the ‘3 Ts’ are concerned there this progress being that the link between science is influencing every aspect of our has indeed been a focus on Technology agricultural science and engineering and daily life and spent quite some time on the with more of the material you now see in food security is not even mentioned in vari- subject of food and population growth and Landwards covering technology and our ous government reports - the most notable mentioned technology, tractors and 2011 conference very much focusing on the of them being the Foresight Report on ‘The machinery several times as an integral part topical technology of Diesel Engine future of food and farming’. of achieving the necessary double and dou- Exhaust Emissions. In fact we have now A delegation from Harper Adams ble again production output required over agreed that every second conference University College (HAUC) led by Prof coming generations. If you missed this should have a technology theme alternating Simon Blackmore and Prof Dick Godwin great piece of oratory you can view it on with science. has managed to gain the attention of the the BBC iPlayer or download the speech as This year’s conference on 10th May is of Government Chief Scientific Advisor Sir a document from the Royal Society web course focused on science and the key John Beddington. As a result IAgrE have site http://royalsociety.org topic is mentioned in the first half of these been formerly requested by him to prepare musings. ‘Weathering the Perfect Storm - a report on the contribution of applied sci- TIMES are changing at IAgrE. We have Who do you want in your lifeboat?’ make ence and engineering in agriculture as a the announcement that our Chief sure you don’t miss it. vital part of the government’s policy on Executive Chris Whetnall will retire in Technicians have received focus (see this food security and sustainability - this is early 2013 following 14 years leading our issue’s CEO View) as we continue to make indeed progress. A team has been formed institution through times of serious IAgrE events and publications more and work has commenced on this impor- progress and change both in terms of mem- appealing to our Technicians and LTA tant report which we will submit in June bership growth, secretariat offices and the members. And of course the continuing and publish extracts of in a future edition image and footprint of our activities. development of the LTA (Landbased of Landwards. He will be a hard act to follow and that Technicians Accreditation) scheme with the In addition to that, you will probably is why we want to start the recruitment launch of the LTA MEA. have read the very interesting article about process right now. We actively seek appli- As far as the 3rd T is concerned there is Rothamsted Research ‘Can engineering and cations from members for the post which much activity behind the scenes with science deliver sustainable food security’ pub- will start in January 2013. The post can be Training be it working with Universities, lished in the most recent edition of tailored to full or part time (minimum 3 Colleges and other organisations on quali- Landwards (Winter 2011) on pages 22 and days per week) depending on the right fications etc or promoting better communi- 23. This outlined the fascinating projects individual’s needs. We are not planning to cation and joined up thinking. I was instru- Rothamsted are working on such as 20 20 open recruitment beyond the membership mental in the formation of LE TEC the (achieve 20tons of wheat per hectare in 20 as we are keen to have someone who is meeting place for our 3 industry bodies years). very knowledgeable both of our industry involved in Training (IAgrE, AEA and In February we held the IAgrE Council and institution. If you would like more BAGMA) to ensure we tackle the big meeting at Rothamsted with an extended information please call or email me or the issues and speak with one voice. agenda to tour the site and receive fasci- secretariat office, as soon as possible to I would like to sign off with a huge thank nating presentations about this and other express your interest - the numbers you will you and appreciation to all of the member- key projects which will enable the contin- find inside the front cover. ship for your continued support and inter- ued development of yields and output It is also coming up to the time to est in what we do for you and the great while reducing agriculture’s carbon foot- change President as it is a 2 year role and support and work that you do in promoting print and water usage - all vital for our my term in office ends in May of this year. our profession and institution to all around future. An event report is published else- As a consequence this will be my last you in your daily activities. I would also where in this edition of Landwards and the Presidents Musings. Our President Elect like to thank the entire team at the secre- PowerPoint presentations on these fasci- Andy Newbold will be taking over the reins tariat office for their immense help and nating research projects are available on from the Council Meeting on May 10th. I support as it would be impossible to carry the IAgrE website under Resources and wish him every success and my full support. on a full time job and execute my duties as then Conference Archive (you need to be I have enjoyed my term in office and feel IAgrE President without their help and logged in as a member to access this area the institution has made progress during dedication. of the website). that time. When I came in, I made a Lastly but not least all those committee I think the message is already getting Presidential Address and set out my agen- members and others who are involved in through as I was fascinated to listen to the da and goals for the 2 year term. These running branches and technical groups, Richard Dimbleby Lecture on BBC broad- included growing membership by 15% and organising events, writing articles for cast on the 28th Feb given by Sir Paul focusing on the ‘3 Ts’ of Technology, Landwards and everything else. Thank you Nurse, President of the Royal Society on Technicians and Training. to all.

Spring 2012 Landwards 11 PRECISION FARMING

National Centre for PrecisionPrecision FarmingFarming Harper Adams to become a hub for smart technology expertise

ON the world stage, the terminology has “It is all about managing the variables,” production, for example, is already well- been in existence for nearly 25 years. says Professor Simon Blackmore, leader of known in the agri-food sector. It has also But as a practical farming method, preci- the centre and Professor of Agricultural developed automatic steering systems sion agriculture has been relatively slow to Engineering at Harper Adams. “Most which use GPS, and can measure to within catch on in the UK, despite Britain leading farms deal with averages rather than an accuracy of 2cms which sections of the much of the early technological develop- specifics because farmers don’t have the field have been sprayed, resulting in less ment. wherewithal to apply precise techniques. chemical wastage. The February launch of the National This is where the Centre will step in. Using new technologies in this way can Centre for Precision Farming aims to “Farmers tend not to have the informa- help improve and reduce the cost of food change that. Based at Harper Adams tion they need in enough detail to be able production by targeting inputs - doing the University College, in Shropshire, the cen- to understand all the variables. So, for right thing, at the right time, in the right tre will provide a bridge between the theo- example, if parts of a field are not yielding location. This is beneficial to both the bot- ry and practice of agricultural techniques as well as the rest they may realise there is tom line as well as for the environment, as that many believe are vital if sufficient pro- a problem but may have to treat the whole it aims to make the production process duction of the world’s food is to be sus- field rather than just the parts that are more efficient. tained. deficient.” In arable farming, the concept reduces Precision farming has two main aspects. the size of management zones from farm, The spatial deals with issues such as soil to field, to sub field areas. In livestock the types, and levels of crop yield. The tempo- obvious management unit is each individ- ral is about the weather - whether there is ual animal. By utilising smarter machines too much or too little rain and which crops it is also possible to improve the delivery of respond best to different conditions. information to support better decision “A variation in any of these events can making. set back the whole process because grow- ing a crop is not a linear exercise. Precision The Centre’s second role will be to provide farming aims to make the whole crop pro- a focal point for the industry; offering a duction process more efficient, so farmers place for agriculturalists to meet and can grow the amount of crops to a higher source information, and gathering and dis- quality, for less.” seminating good practice from within the The Centre will have two main roles. On UK and abroad. the one hand, it will promote and evaluate To achieve this it has recently recruited the use of technology as a vital aspect of experts in the fields of controlled traffic precision agriculture, building upon the management, mechatronics and hydraulics. Guests at the House of university’s reputation as an innovator in “We want the Centre to be inclusive, Commons Terrace Pavilion for the field of engineering. Its work in the non-competitive, and used for networking - the launch of the NCPF area of robotics in crop scouting and dairy the passing on of information and bringing

12 Landwards Spring 2012 . . . We want the centre to be inclusive, non-competitive, and used for networking - the passing on of information and bringing people together

Professor Simon Blackmore, Harper Adams University College people together,” Professor Blackmore Harper Adams is ideally placed to host print of the agri-food chain. adds. “We will not be able to work with this new initiative because of its academic “We run the only undergraduate degrees individual farms in an advisory capacity but record in agricultural higher education, its in the country in agricultural engineering, we will be able to point farmers in the strengths in applied research and knowl- which produce engineers to design and direction of someone who can help them edge exchange and its links with the indus- deliver this vital but under recognised with specific problems. We will also put on try and organisations such as the aspect of the farming sector - covering short courses and conferences on precision Institution of Agricultural Engineers and everything from tractors and combine har- farming and offer links to Centres doing the Agricultural Engineers Association. vesters to spraying technology,” he added. similar work overseas. In discussion with the Agricultural “The agricultural engineering industry is “Precision farming is still an up-and- Engineers Association the recently formed increasingly joining up mechanical systems coming practice in agriculture in this coun- AEA Precision Farming Forum will work with electronic solutions in arable produc- try and, admittedly, some people are scep- with the National Centre to promote tion, but more needs to be done to get tical. But the early practitioners used tech- knowledge transfer and help networking. these techniques in front of a wider audi- nology which is now employed in main- Commenting on the announcement, ence. The Centre will also cover livestock stream agriculture, and many farmers have Chief Executive of the AEA, Roger Lane- production, which has been slower to modified their techniques because of what Nott, said that, “The creation of the develop technologically than crop-based they’ve learned by adopting some aspects National Centre is a welcome development precision farming. of precision farming.” and will be of significant benefit in helping The National Centre is a much-needed policy-makers and the wider public recog- resource. While farmers are being expected nise the vital contribution made by the to produce more food, there is a growing agricultural engineering sector to future recognition of the need to protect soils, food production”. manage water and nutrient availability, and improve animal welfare. As new technologies are developed an “Farmers can get advice from many open forum will be provided by the Centre sources but often it may be that they have to critically assess and promote suitable to turn to those who might be trying to sell methods for commercial exploitation. them equipment and/or services,” says Current issues include, for example, com- Professor Richard Godwin, Chairman of patibility between different ISOBUS (the the Douglas Bomford Trust, which funds new communication standard between two PhD students at Harper Adams every tractors and smart implements) equipment year and is a supporter of the establish- providers and data exchange formats. ment of the National Centre. The Centre’s early activities included a “Farmers need somewhere to go for formal launch at the end of February, a “There are now technologies, for exam- independent advice. At the same time, the public lecture on the Future of Precision ple, that could help improve animal welfare agricultural industry needs a facility where Farming in the UK in the spring of 2012 by better monitoring feed intake and research can be carried out in a secure and and an ISOBUS ‘plug fest’ later in the informing the farmer, remotely, about wel- risk-free setting, where lessons will be year, to assess compatibility issues and fare issues. learned and applied across the sector.” identify new opportunities. “So the launch of the Centre is timely in Whilst similar work was done at Dr David Llewellyn, the Principal of bringing all of these new technologies and Cranfield University, Silsoe, and at the Harper Adams University College, said, practices together. It will be a unique con- Silsoe Research Institute, in Bedfordshire, “The Centre will aim to promote collabora- tribution to the UK's efforts to tackling the until the mid-2000s, a lack of continuity in tion between universities, the agricultural global challenge of food security and will funding resulted in the closure of these engineering industry and the food and support the Government’s recently pub- activities. farming sectors, and will provide the means lished Innovation and Research Strategy, to contribute, in this field of expertise, to which highlights the role to be played by other collaborative agri-food networks. the agri-food sector in the development “Our focus will be on how advanced and application of technology to promote technologies can be employed to help economic growth.” increase food production, whilst minimis- ing inputs and reducing the carbon foot- Our focus will be on how advanced technologies can be employed to help increase food production, whilst minimising inputs and reducing the carbon footprint of the agri-food chain Dr David Llewellyn, Principal, Harper Adams University College

Spring 2012 Landwards 13 CPD IAgrE’s Professional Development tool myPath

DR MARK COOPER on keeping an electronic record of your Continuing Professional Development DEFINITION Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the systematic maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge and skill, and the development of personal qualities necessary for the execution of professional and technical duties throughout the individual’s working life.

INTRODUCTION is useful and that the means of recording Environment and had the opportunity to Whatever our specialism, it is a fact of and demonstrating how that has happened see the CPD systems that other profession- modern life that we need to demonstrate is of secondary importance. But we live in al bodies operate. This included the that we are keeping our professional skills an evidence-based world and it is increas- Institution of Mechanical Engineers, up-to-date. ingly important to be able to prove that Chartered Institute of Building, Quite often we don’t even register the you have up to date and relevant CPD. Arboriculture Association, and Institute of fact that what we are doing constitutes Therefore, any system that makes the Environmental Management & Assessment ‘professional development’. How many of process of keeping our records in one place amongst others. us have had to get to grips with new tech- and having them in a format to show not I have also had the opportunity to offer nology such as smart phones or email or just the activities themselves but that we advice to the secretariat in preparation for new software? And yet we take such things have reviewed them, reflected upon them the Institution’s own renewal of its Society in our stride hardly noticing or recording and had them peer reviewed, must surely for Environment licence and have had my the time we have spent in the process. be of value? own CPD audited. Formal courses are easier to record as Consequently, I have been quite fortu- they often have a completion certificate or PERSONAL EXPERIENCES nate in being able to see a number of certificate of attendance. However, it’s all My particular interest is in agricultural recording and monitoring systems in opera- too easy to keep them altogether in a fold- safety and as a result, I have been a mem- tion. er without reflecting on the benefits or ber of several different professional bodies recording our experiences. - those concerning safety; agricultural MYPATH For those working in larger organisations engineering; and because I used to teach, MyPath is a portal operated by the or in highly regulated industry sectors, those regulating lifelong learning. Engineering Council (EC) and to which there is also the culture of getting a ‘certifi- For a number of years I also represented IAgrE members have access as a