Agriculture • Horticulture • Forestry • Environment • Amenity

LANDWARDSLate Spring 2003

CAN-bus

Eden Project www.iagre.org Fauna

Volume 58 No.2 58 No.2 Volume Protection IAgrE JOURNAL Soil Management for Sustainability ISTRO International Soil Tillage Research Organisation President: Dr Jeff Tullberg, University of Queensland 16th Triennial Conference

Registration brochure now available or register online July 13-18 2003 Brisbane,Australia

SPREADERS New spreader system with in-cab border control

new border spreading actuator moves the spout to off while maintaining the visual indicator. The patented system with convenient feed fertiliser to a special third application rate. spout and spreader mechanism Ain-cab electric control is, vane on the disc, which results in The system is easy for the are made from stainless steel in available on the Sulky DPX a shorter throw with exact cut- operator to use and includes a order to maintain long-term fertiliser spreaders, distributed in accuracy, and the electric the UK by Rustons Engineering. actuator has a protective casing. The Sulky Tribord system gives very clean cut-off at field CONTACT edges without changing discs or manual resetting, so tractor Rustons Engineering Co Ltd, drivers can quickly adjust spread Brampton Road, widths on one side to take Huntingdon, Camridgeshire, account of ditches, hedges, PE18 6BQ. Tel: +44 (0)1480 watercourses and other sensitive 455151 Fax: +44 (0)1480 areas without leaving the cab. 52116 E-mail: The application system on [email protected] Website: standard DPX spreaders consists www.reco.co.uk of a movable spout and a disc with two vanes, the spread width being determined by the point on the disc where the The new Tribord system now available on Sulky DPX fertiliser fertiliser is dropped. With the spreaders distributed by Rustons Tribord system, an electric Engineering (RECO) Volume 58 No 2, 2003

The Professional Journal for Engineers, Scientists, and Technologists in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Environment LANDWARDS and Amenity

Editor CONTENTS Eur Ing Prof Brian D Witney PhD CEng FIMechE HonFIAgrE MemASAE FFCS Feature Articles LAND TECHNOLOGY LTD 33 South Barnton Ave, 2 MACHINERY MANAGEMENT Edinburgh, EH4 6AN Tel/Fax:0131 336 3129 Protecting grassland fauna during harvest E-mail: [email protected] Annette Prochnau, D Kraut and H Jacobs Website: http://www.landtec.co.uk 6 AMENITY Advertising All enquiries to IAgrE Eden Project Tel:01525 861096 John A C Weir Fax: 01525 861660 Origination: David King 12 EROSION CONTROL Printing: Barr Printers Ltd Sustainable soil and water management in sub-Saharan

Publisher Africa Landwards is published bimonthly by: Vaughan Redfern IAgrE, West End Road, Silsoe, 15 ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER Bedford, MK45 4DU Tel:01525 861096 Harvesting with CAN-bus Fax: 01525 861660 Morten Moller E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.iagre.org

President Membership Matters centrefold Dr Dan Mitchell CEng FIAgrE FRAgS News and Comment Chief Executive & Secretary 5 News scan Christopher R Whetnall IEng MIAgrE MemASAE 22 Book reviews 24 Company and product information

Front cover: Daffodils (Photo: Land Technology Ltd)

The views and opinions expressed in individual contributions are not those necessarily of IAgrE or the Editor. Landwards is compiled from information received by IAgrE but no responsibility can be accepted by the governing Council, the Publishers or the Editor in respect of any errors or omissions. The Editor reserves the right to edit any material sent to the journal. Material from this publication may be quoted or reported on condition that full credit is given to Landwards and to the author, and that the date of publication and volume number are stated. In the interest of factual reporting, reference to trade names and proprietary products may be inevitable. No endorsement of the named products or manufacturers is intended and no adverse criticism is implied of similar products which are not mentioned. © The Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) ISSN 1363-8300 MACHINERY MANAGEMENT

Double knife mower causes less damage to grassland fauna

PROTECTING GRASSLAND FAUNA DURING HARVEST A. Prochnow, D. Kraut and H. Jacobs

Summary patterns from the inside cost way of protecting grassland Purpose Several times a year mechanised outwards to facilitate the fauna. Several times a year mechanised grassland harvest leads to injury animals’ escape. Process costs, calculated for grassland harvest leads to the and death of large numbers of Field investigations, carried out mowing with several working injury and death of large numbers invertebrates, amphibians, birds over 6 years, show that in most widths, decrease with rising field of invertebrates, amphibians, birds and mammals. Measures for cases the ‘double knife’ mower size for all working patterns and mammals, thus endangering protecting the grassland fauna causes significantly lower damage, considered, even when whole populations (Meierhöfer, during harvest include: to invertebrates, than the ‘disc consistently mowing in stripes 2002).As far as protecting the • use of oscillating instead of mower’ or ‘flail mulcher’, with these from the inside outwards. If it is species group is concerned, several rotary mowers; last two machines being less possible to mow from one field technological and technical • cutting at a height of at least clearly distinguishable.An example side to the other or in spirals from measures are recommended. 100 mm; and of this is with carabid beetles. It the field centre to the periphery, • mowing the fields in special was found that the growing then using fauna-friendly patterns • Using oscillating population during the year, could may even reduce costs.Thus instead of rotary compensate the short-term fauna-friendly mowing patterns mowers impacts of the mowing machines. can contribute to fauna protection Results have been obtained, For all types of mowing machines at little or no additional costs to from various investigations raising the cutting height to 100 other practices. referring to impacts of mowing mm is a simple, effective and low machines on invertebrates and

BIO NOTE This article was first prepared as EurAgEng Paper No 02-SE-046 and displayed at the Poster Session held at AgEng2002 in Budapest, Hungary. Contact Dr Annette Prochnow at the Institute of Agricultural Engineering Bornim, Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469 Potsdam, Germany. Tel.: +49 (0) 331 5699 213 E-mail: aprochnow@atb- Fig. 1 Special mowing patterns for the protection of grassland fauna potsdam.de

2 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 yet. Further technological and technical measures for protecting the grassland fauna is harvesting after the reproduction season of birds or other sensitive species and mounting game savers on the mowing machines. However, knowledge in this area is insufficient; short and long- term impacts of working with different mowing machines and cutting heights on the invertebrate grassland fauna have to be investigated.A second focus that Fig. 2 Damage to grassland invertebrates caused by different mowing machines (Kraut et al., 2002), in must be considered is the relation to the average damage caused by the double knife mower calculation of costs for mowing in fauna-friendly patterns.

Approach Extensive field trials have been carried out in a large nature reserve near Berlin since 1992 (Kraut et al., 2002). On three typical grassland biotopes there are permanent plots, each of them being mowed annually with a double knife mower, disc mower or flail mulcher.Additional experiments using cutting heights of 60 mm, 100 mm and 150 mm were also completed in one year. Dead and injured invertebrates on the ground and in the grass are counted immediately after mowing. In Fig. 3 Damage to grassland invertebrates caused at different cutting heights, in relation to the damage order to determine long-term caused at a cutting height of 60 mm effects, the populations of carabid beetles are investigated before amphibians which show that invertebrate models indicate subdivide the fields into several mowing. rotary mowers cause that damage to small animals plots. Fleeing mammals and Process costs are calculated significantly higher damage to can be reduced by increasing ground birds that instinctively for the following mowing patterns the animals than oscillating the cutting height of the do not leave the cover of the which use varying field size and mowers (Claßen et al., 1996). mowers (Kraut et al., 2002) standing vegetation gather in working width: There is, therefore, a strong call and thus providing a sheltering the remaining grass strips and • conventional pattern from nature conservationists in zone in the stubble.This refers are seized there by the subdividing the field into support of the use of ‘double to all types of mowing and mowing machines. Special several plots; knife’ or ‘finger bar’ mowers in mulching machines. It is mowing patterns are therefore • mowing the field in stripes place of rotary mowers. questionable whether results recommended to facilitate the from the inside outwards However, to date, there have from experiments with artificial animals’ escape; mowing the [Fig.1(a)]; been no field experiments invertebrate models can be field in stripes from the inside • spiral mowing from the field covering varying site conditions applied to field conditions outward [Fig.1(a)], spiral centre to the periphery [Fig. and different years, nor are the because the escape behaviour mowing from the field centre 1(b)]; long-term impacts on the of mobile animals cannot be to the periphery [Fig.1(b)] and • mowing from one side of the grassland fauna known, from taken into account. However, mowing from one side of the field to the other using only the use of different mowing results from field experiments field to the other, with front- front mounted mowers machines. are not available so far. mounted mowers only [Fig.1(c)]. [Fig.1(c)].The influence of the The fields are assumed to have • Cutting at a height of • Mowing the fields in mowing patterns on mowing a rectangular shape with a at least 100 mm special patterns capacities and hence process length to width ratio of 2:1. Experiments with artificial Conventional mowing patterns costs have not been calculated

3 MACHINERY MANAGEMENT

protecting measures and all operations of the harvest machinery chains.

References Claßen A; Hirler A; Oppermann R (1996).Auswirkungen unterschiedlicher Mähgeräte auf die Wiesenfauna in Nordost-Polen (Impacts of different mowing machines on grassland fauna in North-East Poland). In: Naturschutz und Landschaftsplanung, Bd. 28, H. 5, S. Fig. 4 Process costs for mowing and turning times with different working patterns with a working 139-144 width of 2.7 m (Meierhöfer, 2002) Kraut D; Jacobs H; Linke F; Prochnow A (2002). Auswirkungen von Results most expensive one but additional to 100 mm is a simple, effective Landschaftspflegeverfahren auf Field investigations over 6 years costs, in relation to conventional and low-cost way of protecting Boden,Vegetation und Fauna von show that in most cases the mowing, account for no more grassland fauna. Fauna-friendly Niederungsstandorten (Impacts of double knife mower causes than 5%. If it is possible to mow mowing patterns can contribute landscape maintenance procedures significantly lower damage to from one field side to the other or to fauna protection at little or no on soil, vegetation and fauna of fen invertebrates than the disc mower in spirals from the field centre to additional costs. sites). Forschungsberichte des and flail mulcher, with these last the periphery, costs may even be Despite the new results Instituts für Agrartechnik Bornim, two machines being less clearly reduced by using fauna-friendly obtained, knowledge about H. 2002/3, 220 S distinguishable (Fig. 2).The patterns. impacts of technological and Meierhöfer J (2002).Aufwendungen absolute number of killed or technical measures on fauna and für faunaschonende Befahrmuster injured invertebrates varies widely Conclusions on expenditure still remains bei der Grünlandmahd dependent on factors such as In areas with a sensitive fauna, insufficient.There is a high demand (Expenditures for fauna-friendly weather and site conditions. double knife mowers should be for complex and interdisciplinary mowing patterns on grassland). Cutting at a height of at least used in preference to rotary research on this subject, Studienprojekt, Humboldt- 100 mm provides a sheltering mowers. For all types of mowing particularly including long-term Universität zu Berlin, Fachgebiet zone for the grassland machines raising the cutting height effects, the combination of fauna- Agrartechnik invertebrates, thus reducing damage caused by all mowing machines which were investigated. The level of damage, however, still remains higher for the machines Long service certificates with rotating tools (Fig. 3) than for those without. The carabid beetle Name Grade Date of anniversary populations of the plots, as a long- 50 years term, indicator are not differing Peter Hebblethwaite CEng MIAgrE 24 Mar 2003 significantly from each other (Kraut Philip Anthony Laughton Orbell EngTech MIAgrE 24 Mar 2003 et al., 2002).This means that the William Haywood lEng MIAgrE 24 Mar 2003 populations during the year can compensate different short-term 35 years impacts, of the mowing machines Thomas Cochran AlAgrE 9 Apr 2003 on the individuals. However, at the Duncan George Barclay Riddell EngTech MIAgrE 9 Apr 2003 current state of investigation this John Anthony Earley lEng MIAgrE 9 Apr 2003 statement can only be applied Peter Lawrence Redman FlAgrE 9 Apr 2003 strictly to the carabid beetle James Rollo Robinson lEng MIAgrE 9 Apr 2003 species. Paul Thomas Delecroix Turner lEng MIAgrE 9 Apr 2003 Process costs for mowing, with a given working width, 25 years decrease with rising field size for all William James Hope Ramsay IEng MIAgrE 9 Mar 2003 working patterns regarded (Fig. 4), Peter Robin Mason CEng MIAgrE 9 Mar 2003 even when consistently mowing in Thomas Alexander Copland CEng MIAgrE 9 Mar 2003 stripes from the inside outwards. Patrick Warren Bailey AIAgrE 26 Mar 2003 This fauna-friendly pattern is the David William Russell IEng MIAgrE 26 Mar 2003

4 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT

Mechanical Engineering degrees feature in top ten that offer best employment prospects for graduates

egrees in Mechanical percentage point in graduate “Higher education Careers is encouraging students to think Engineering offer the unemployment which increased Services, which collect data on through their long term Dseventh best to 6.3 per cent in 2001 from its graduates’ first jobs, find that aspirations and make better employment prospects for all time low of 5.5 per cent of student course choices can be informed choices.” graduates, following on the heels the previous two years, and influenced by popular culture. Tony Higgins, UCAS chief of subjects including Civil reversing a ten year downward When these graduates chose executive, added:“It appears Engineering, Accountancy, trend. their degree subjects, Cherie that the women who choose to Business and Management “We predicted last year that Booth enjoyed a positive media enter traditionally male Studies and Media Studies and graduate unemployment had profile as a high achieving professions could be influencing ahead of Electrical and levelled out and was unlikely to barrister, and Ally McBeal, the those who are currently applying Electronic Engineering. dip any lower,” commented Mike story of a Boston law firm to higher education and we are According to the latest Hill, chief executive of CSU, the dominated by successful female seeing evidence of this in annual ‘What Do Graduates Do?’ higher education Careers lawyers, was a popular television application figures for UK report, 67.7 per cent of the Services Unit.“This current show so it’s not surprising that universities and colleges. 2001 graduating cohort found increase follows two years Law became a very attractive “For example, UCAS’ first work within six months of where graduate unemployment career for women.” figures for 2003 entry show an graduation, with nearly a fifth, remained at an all time low and “Women’s study and career increase of 1,800 in the number 18.4 per cent, of graduates is still a long way from the highs choices also show an of women applying to medicine opting for further studies. Nearly of 8.2 per cent five years ago appreciation of the need to compared with last year, and two thirds, 65 per cent, of and around 12 per cent ten consider long-term job flexibility there are rises too in the graduates in work secured years ago,” he continued. which will enable them to have number of women applying to professional employment (i.e. a Published by CSU, the families and keep their career dentistry and veterinary job requiring a degree or Association of Graduate options open. It is these well science/medicine. It will be equivalent). Careers Advisory Services organised, forward thinking interesting to see, as the Nearly four fifths, 79.2 per (AGCAS) and the Universities women who are the most application cycle progresses, cent, of Civil Engineering and Colleges Admissions Service regular visitors to their university whether other subject areas graduates found employment (UCAS), What do graduates do? Careers Services,” she added. show similar growth.” within six months, as did 78.2 2003 tracks the career Male students too are per cent of Accountancy destinations of first degree and widening their study choices, graduates. Employment amongst HND graduates and examines their three most popular MORE INFORMATION Information Technology (IT) the employment market by subjects being IT, Business and graduates, which has enjoyed a occupational sector and subject Management Studies and Design CSU, the Higher Education rapid ascendancy in recent of study. Studies. Engineering subjects Careers Services Unit, works years, fell by 7.3 percentage Graduate employment such as Mechanical Engineering in partnership with AGCAS to points from 79.9 per cent in trends often mirror popular and Electrical and Electronic maximise the opportunities 2000, to 72.6 per cent in 2001 culture and the 2001 cohort is Engineering are still over ninety and support available to all and has been usurped by no exception. Numbers of per cent male. school-leavers and students. Business and Management female graduates studying Law “What is striking about The CSU service includes over Studies (75.7 per cent), Media increased by nearly 400 over the ‘What Do Graduates Do?’ this 800 different career guides, Studies (74.1 per cent) and five years from 1996, the largest year is the extent to which graduate marketplace reports Building (73.3 per cent), as increase across all degree female graduates are exploring and the Prospects Series of subjects offering the highest subjects covered.This was historically male dominated recruitment and post employability rates. Mechanical followed closely by Media career paths,” said Mike Hill. graduate course directories Engineering came in at 70.7 per Studies and Psychology. Overall, “We have seen this in the and magazines, career cent while Electrical and the most popular subject for medical field where an planning software, web and Electronic Engineering was 68.9 women was Business & increasing number of women online options to enhance the per cent. Management Studies. are qualifying as GPs, and now in careers advice provided in The decline in the IT Commenting on these Law. It reveals the impact of higher education careers industry accounts largely for a findings, Margaret Dane, chief sound careers advice at all services. Web: rise of just under one executive of AGCAS, said: stages of their education which www.prospects.ac.uk

5 AMENITY

The four domes of the ‘humid tropics’ biome connected to the ‘warm tropics’ biome (right) by the turf covered restaurant EDEN (Photo: John A C Weir) PROJECT John A.C.Weir

Introduction was running out of its workable lip of the crater. However, due to initially, to build two large As a result of the two fascinating clay reserves.There are a The Eden Project’s uniqueness, it greenhouses free of internal papers presented on the Eden number of worked-out mines in was difficult at this point to supporting members, thus Project at the IAgrE 2002 Annual the area but the location and visualise the sheer magnitude of establishing their stability and Conference, by David Hamilton size of Bodelva which is the structures. Our guide, Martin durability with a structural of Anthony Hunt Associates and approximately 22 ha in area, with Jones of Anthony Hunt framework but allowing for Geoff Fanham of Arup, the each mine in the area varying Associates, put this into a maximum light transmission.This Horticultural Engineering between 30 m and 70 m in meaningful perspective when was a particularly tall order Specialist Group resolved to go depth, most closely matched the detailing the overall dimensions calling for innovation in the and see it at the earliest possible requirements of Tim Smit’and of the structures. extreme on the part of Anthony opportunity. Our visit, combined his team. The larger ‘humid tropics’ Hunt Associates, the consulting with members of the Southwest The Eden Project’s official biome has a maximum width of structural engineers. Fortunately, Branch and, advisedly, out of opening to the public, following 110 m, length of 240 m and season, took place on the 4th completion, took place in March maximum height of 55 m.The November 2002. 2001; between this date and the height of this biome required to The St. Austel landscape, day we if our visit, the Eden be generous due to the fact that where the Eden Project has Project had attracted over 2 many humid tropics’ tree species been constructed, is pockmarked million visitors, more than twice are capable of attaining heights with ‘mines’ large quarries from the number planned! of 50 m in relatively short which china clay (kaolin) is periods of time!.The second, extracted, to be used mainly by The biomes ‘warm tropics’, biome has the ceramics and paper The Eden Project consists of maximum dimensions of 65 m industries.The approach to the seven domes clustered in two wide, 135 m long and 35 m high. town from the Cornish spine groups which are connected by The combined plan area of route (A38), cuts through what a turf-covered corridor and these two biomes, amounts to BIO NOTE has been aptly described as a restaurant. Our first full view of 2.2 ha. ‘moonscape’ of craters.The Eden the complete panorama of the The basic architectural John A C Weir, FIAgrE, is Chairman Project is located in one of these aptly named ‘biomes’, glistening concept, as defined by the of the Horticultural Engineering craters, known as the Bodelva in the morning sunlight, was principal architects Sir Nicholas Specialist Group. E-mail: Mine which by the mid 1990s from a balcony at the southern Grimshaw and Partners, was, [email protected]

6 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 roads, administrative zones and water storage lakes, in addition to the actual biome locations. This formed a major operation under the supervision of land use consultants assisted by the use of digital ground modelling and aerial surveying. In this process, approximately 0.8 Mm3 of material was moved to create the desired landscape, without the need to export any from the site as surplus to requirement. Some of the inherent advantages of adopting this unconventional design became apparent in the construction of the biomes which was carried out by the main contractors, McAlpine Joint Venture. Apart from a much ‘Before and after’; initial excavation work in progress on the site of the biome shown in the lower structural loading, background. (Photo: John A C Weir) approximately one fifth of an equivalent glass structure, the geodetic framework of considerable advances in the hexagonal sections lent itself to development of plastic film ensuring the biomes’ stability on materials, with high transparency, an uneven foundation.This have been made in recent years. foundation varied from a clay This enabled the designers to rich scree material to granite move away from traditional glass bedrock, profiled from the cladding which would have horizontal to the near vertical! imposed severe constraints on Excessive groundwater what could be achieved in terms combined with appalling weather of structural geometry, conditions at the biome presenting an opportunity for construction phase, made their substantially reducing supporting completion, on schedule, a major elements in size and number. achievement.The scaffold rig, After several basic designs were comprising approximately 320 considered, the one finally km of scaffold poles which was selected was a geodesic required for the erection of the framework of hexagonal humid tropics biome, has found modules.The modules were a place in the Guinness Book of designed varying in size up to 11 Records as the world’s tallest m across, and clad with freestanding scaffolding ethyltetraflouroethylene (ETFE) structure. film, in the form of triple-layer inflated ‘cushions’.The ETFE film The biome combines high transparency with environment high durability, being free from A further objective, central to ultraviolet (UV) degradation and the spirit of the Eden Project, therefore giving it a long useful was that of achieving maximum life. economy in the use of resources for environmental support; in Preparation of site particular water for both Preparation work on the site recycling and rainwater commenced in 1998, with a collection, imported soil and soil mandate of minimising the substitutes and energy.This was a import and export of fill key mandate for Arup who were A general view in the ‘humid tropics’ biome from the top of the material.This consisted of the main contractors responsible cascade (Photo: John A C Weir) grading the whole area to for the project’s environmental accommodate car parks, service systems. However, in the two

7 AMENITY

avoiding undesirable spatial plants. Under such ‘zoning’, posed a major challenge circumstances,‘fogging’ systems in the environmental design of provide the best solution and in such large structures.With the this particular case a network of aid of extensive computerised atomising nozzles has been modelling, a hybrid system located within the bed area to combining convective air ensure an even distribution of movement with directional fog. Here, run off rainwater, forced air jet streams, from collected from the biome ‘climate control’ units, was surfaces which is then filtered developed to cover ventilation, and disinfected by silver air circulation and heating.The ionisation, is circulated at very climate control units, situated high pressure (125 bar) via a ring around the periphery of the main to the nozzles.This biomes, each consist of a fan unit produces a fog of microscopic and airflow heater supplied by sized droplets which is instantly hot water from a central boiler taken up as vapour to maintain system. After considering heat the design’s atmospheric relative Looking out through one of the ground level louvred air supply options such as biogas, humidity (RH). ventilators, with one of the climate–control transducers combined heat and power or Maintaining the desired (aspirated screen containing wet and dry bulb sensors) visible to solar collection, natural gas was degree of atmospheric control, the left of the small tree (Photo: John A C Weir) the preferred source; a decision when ambient conditions are

biomes, such economies had to be balanced against the overriding requirement of matching the design’s climatic conditions, based on plant physiology models developed by Silsoe Research Institute. Andrew Marchant, a member of our Horticultural Engineering Specialist Group Committee who had worked with Arup on the project, guided us through the main features on the biome environmental systems. The primary objective in the biome design was to maximise daylight penetration into their planted zones.This was achieved by: Introduction of the Horticultural Engineering Specialist Group and the Southwest Branch to the • giving the biomes their east biomes; Martin Jones facing the camera (Photo: John A C Weir) to west orientation with a general north to south downward slope forward both respects. It was pointed out made on the grounds of initial subject to very rapid changes, from the cliff base; that the light coloured rock face, cost and reliability. demands a sophisticated climate • minimising the elements of forming the internal northern The atmosphere in the control system.This must be the supporting structure; and walls of the biomes, reflected humid tropics biome, maintained capable of rapid and accurate • using the ETFE cladding useful incoming daylight back at minimum temperatures within response from the which has a daylight onto the plant canopy.This also the band of 18 – 20oC but rising environmental system, while transparency factor superior served as a useful heat ‘sink’, under solar radiation to a achieving an energy efficient to that of glass. helping to control biome possible temperature of 35oC, operation. For this the VanVliet The inflated triple layer ETFE temperature by absorbing and has to be kept at a relative Automation Horticultural cushions which formed the two storing incoming radiant heat humidity of at least 90 per cent. Management System, well known biome envelopes, satisfied the during the daytime, then This results in an excessive in commercial horticulture, is requirements of maximum light releasing that heat as atmospheric water demand – used in both biomes. transmission with the added temperatures fall at night. particularly at the higher advantage of good heat Regulating atmospheric temperatures – which cannot be Watering Lane insulation – an improvement on temperature and relative satisfied solely by the natural Nursery double-glazed glass cladding in humidity to within design limits, transpiration of the growing Any successful show always

8 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 depends on a well run, behind the assistant curator, gave us a modified Venlo greenhouse, with from concept to full reality but the scenes, back up and The glimpse into the running of this a 6.5 m eaves height, expressly also that it was a particular Eden Project is certainly no essential facility involving an to house the taller plant complement to the achievement exception to this.The nearby ongoing production schedule of material. Botanically speaking, of the engineering profession. village ‘Watering Lane Nursery’, plant species, replacements, Watering Lane Nursery, where was purchased by the Project growing on of specimen trees we concluded our day’s visit, was Further reading Trust shortly before work on the and other plants, acclimatising really where it all started and Jones,Alan; Hamilton, David; main site commenced in 1998. It and quarantine of imported here it seemed a fitting moment Jones, Martin. The Design and was extensively modified, largely specimens, etc.The shear to thank our guides for providing Construction of the Eden under the direction of Andrew diversity – from mature trees to such an excellent insight into the Project. Anthony Hunt Associates Marchant, and has amply fulfilled minuscule mosses – of plant Eden Project. Ltd, Gloucester House, 60 Dyer the important role of material has necessitated a The Eden Project is regarded St, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, maintaining the large collection widely differing range of suitably by many as having been the GL7 2PF. of plant species required for the equipped glass and plastic film most successful of all the Arup. The Arup Journal 1/2002, pp. biomes and amenity planting of clad greenhouse structures millennium initiatives.What 4-12. Arup, 8 Fitzroy St, London, the whole Bodelva complex. which is the distinguishing impressed us was not only that it W1. Our afternoon tour of the 6 feature of the nursery. One had been on the firm foundation Smit,Tim. Eden. Bantam Press ha site, guided by James Treseder, example of the latter is its of a clearly defined objective, 2001 (Corgi edition 2002).

APPOINTMENT Forest Research Agency to get new Chief Executive

leading microbiologist is to take PhD and DSc degrees from the University Professor Lynch said:“From the days when the helm at Britain’s principal forest of London, which led to a distinguished I taught microbiology to agriculture and Aresearch establishment. Professor career in agricultural research at forestry students in Oxford, I realised the Jim Lynch (57) has been appointed new universities and research institutes in the scope for the natural science approach to Chief Executive of the Forestry UK and USA. He is currently Professor of forestry research. However, with the Commission’s Forest Research Agency.The Biotechnology and Head of the 5 star,‘A’ recognition today of the societal value of agency supplies research, development, rated, School of Biomedical and Life forests and the potential of forestry as a surveys and other services to the forestry Sciences at the University of Surrey, a post clean technology capable of reducing industry and provides scientific advice on he has held since 1993. environmental contamination, it is clear that the formulation of Government forestry Since 1989 he has been Co-ordinator a fully interdisciplinary approach is needed policy. of the Organisation for Economic Co- to realise the full potential of forests. Employing some 300 staff the agency operation and Development (OECD) “It is also clear from my experiences in has main bases at Alice Holt in Surrey and Programme on Biological resource OECD that the scope for international co- at Roslin just outside Edinburgh, as well as a Management and in 1993 he was awarded operation is enormous. I feel very number of smaller offices and fieldstations the UNESCO Microbiology Prize for his privileged to be leading an organisation throughout Britain.The organisation has contributions towards the development of which has already demonstrated its carried out ground-breaking work in areas the ground and scope to allow the competence at a time of such great such as Dutch Elm Disease and is modification on the population balance of opportunity, and also look forward to internationally renowned for the quality of soil to the benefit of man. He is a fellow of retaining my association with the University its research. One of Professor Lynch’s first the Royal Society of Chemistry, the of Surrey as a Professor where the tasks will be to implement the Institute of Biology, the International academic and entrepreneurial spirit is so recommendations of the agency’s first Institute of Biotechnology, and the Royal strong.” quinquennial review which is due to report Society of the Arts. He is also a director of Professor Lynch is married with four shortly. the University of Surrey Environmental children. His personal interests include Professor Lynch graduated in industrial Body; Beacon Bio and Phytobial Victoriana, canoeing, sailing, cycling, chemistry from Loughborough University Technologies Inc. gardening, walking and music. He will take of Technology in 1968 and then gained Commenting on his appointment, up his new post in July.

9 NEWS SCAN

EDUCATION

New MSc Degree in Forest Protection and Conservation is underway at Imperial College

arboriculturalists and conservationists from around the world in USA and Canada, the Far East and Africa including Ethiopia and Malawi. As a one- year Masters Degree, the course is proving of particular interest to those who would otherwise need to devote two years of study to obtain an equivalent experience and qualification. The course is designed to be ‘hands-on’ and very practically orientated.There are visits to appropriate forest and conservation areas, organisations and commercial companies on a weekly basis, and longer field trips and courses to key forest and conservation areas, such as The Peak District National Park (Derbyshire) in the United orest Protection and Kingdom. Conservation, the latest The MSc Course in Forest Faddition to the suite of Protection and Conservation is targeted MSc Courses in attracting participants from a Applied Biological Sciences is wide range of backgrounds and underway at Imperial College. experience. It will bring together With the increasing worldwide recent graduates and seasoned threat to the integrity and well- professionals with expertise in being of trees, this brand-new policy and economics as well as and unique postgraduate course ‘hands-on’ forestry and taught in the United Kingdom, conservation in a wide range of with a global perspective, is countries, climates and timely indeed.The one-year MSc ecosystems. in Forest Protection and The first-year intake includes Conservation comprises taught participants from a wide courses and a research project. It diversity of backgrounds, is based at Imperial’s Silwood including female students. Focus Park Campus in Berkshire to the is on natural forest and West of London, with some woodland, plantation trees and teaching at the Wye Campus of tree crops (with the exception Imperial College located in Kent of estate grown beverage crops in the countryside to the south- – coffee, cocoa, etc.), with due east of London. regard to amenity (shade) trees, The specifically targeted and in a truly international context intensive course has generated and setting. Roe deer, Capreolus capreolus, a major pest of establishment considerable interest from forestry in Britain and Continental Europe The wide range of biotic and foresters, agroforesters, abiotic factors that threatens the

10 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 future sustainability of trees and Conservation will be well APPOINTMENTS forests (pests, diseases and equipped for employment in: weeds, stresses caused by forest services, forest research climate change, the impacts of institutions, forest management climate change itself – notably and consultancy companies New wood at the storm events and droughts – (especially where there is a and international trade) is strong plantation focus), Forestry Commission reflected in the comprehensive overseas aid and development taught component of the programmes, international non- course. government organisations he Forestry moved to the Commission’s Established courses in (NGOs), environmental groups, Commission has headquarters after nine years Application Technology, local authorities and Tappointed new at Kielder, to become Pesticide Science, arboricultural companies. Directors for England, Scotland Operations Director within FE Biotechnology, Decision Tools, The course has the and Wales.The Directors will and became Chief Executive of Statistics and Experimental enthusiastic support of The assume responsibility for all the Forest Enterprise, and a Design, which are a current Forestry Commission and DFID Forestry Commission’s activi- Forestry Commissioner, in feature in the ‘MSc Applied (Department for International ties in the relevant country, in 1997. His interests include Biological Sciences’ suite of Development) and will attract particular policy making, grant- rural land use policy/issues, options, are complemented additional support from large aiding, regulation and the man- fishing, shooting, rugby, and with brand new courses.These local authorities, multi-nationals agement of the public forest cricket. include Forest Resources, and companies with strong estate.The move follows the Forest Pathology and Forest positioning in forestry either outcome of a wide-ranging England: Paul Hill-Tout Pests, Soils, Sites and Nutrition from the forest production or interdepartmental review of Mr Hill-Tout joined the and Forest Ecology, harvesting/processing/manufact the administrative arrange- Forestry Commission at Management and uring (e.g. timber, woodworking, ments for developing sustain- Northampton in 1980 and Conservation. pulp and paper) standpoints. A able forestry policies post- held eleven subsequent posts The taught component is BBSRC (Biotechnology and devolution. in Hampshire, Kielder, Dumfries assessed through continuous Biological Sciences Research The aim of the changes is to and in the Commission’s head- coursework during terms 1 and Council) studentship (full fees achieve greater integration of quarters. He became the 2 and oral and written plus stipend) is available plus forestry with other rural policy Commission’s Chief examinations which take place Departmental Bursaries. work in England, Scotland and Conservator for England in in January and after Easter. This brand-new MSc option Wales whilst retaining desirable 2000. His major professional During term 3, students in Forest Protection and opportunities for a collabora- interests are in planning at the independently conduct a tree Conservation is administered tive approach to common corporate and woodland level. or forest related research through the current MSc issues.The appointments are Paul is married with six chil- project based at Imperial Applied Biological Sciences effective from 1 April, 2003. dren and enjoys gardening, hik- College (Silwood or Wye Offices at Silwood Park, with ing and camping. Campus), a research institute or full-time Scotland: Dr Bob commercial company in the secretarial/administrative McIntosh Wales: Simon Hewitt United Kingdom or overseas. support.The Course was rated Dr McIntosh joined the Mr Hewitt joined the Students write a 20,000-word as ‘excellent’ in the 2000/2001 Forestry Commission in 1973 Forestry Commission as a land dissertation, which is submitted GSLSM (Graduate School of as a trainee District Officer agent in the New Forest in in early September, marked Life Sciences and Medicine and after 18 months in the 1976 following periods work- independently by the project Review) and as ‘outstanding’ Thetford District, spent 3 years ing for the Ministry of supervisor and a second following an onsite review by as Assistant District Officer in Agriculture and in the private approved marker and the BBSRC in 1997. the West Galloway District, sector. He has since held posts moderated the External based in Newton Stewart.This in Thetford, Edinburgh, Bristol Examiner. was followed by a six year and Aberystwyth. He is mar- MORE INFORMATION The course presents a spell in Forest Research, based ried with three children, two of unique opportunity for Further information from in the Silviculture (North) whom have now flown the students interested in the Course Director: Dr branch at the Commission’s nest, and enjoys walking and management of sustainable Simon Leather, Biological Northern Research Station outdoor pursuits. He was forest, woodland, plantation and Sciences Department, and with responsibility for appointed Chief Conservator, amenity trees and to focus on Imperial College, Silwood work in nutritional problems Forestry Commission Wales in protection and conservation in Park, Ascot SL5 7PY. United and fertiliser use. On leaving 1996 and was closely involved local, national and international Kingdom. Tel: +44 (0) 207 Research, he spent a year as in the process of change contexts rather than take a 594 2316. Fax: +44 (0) 207 Forest District Manager (FDM) resulting from devolution and traditional course in forestry. 594 2339. E-mail: in the Rothbury District before the creation of the National Students graduating in [email protected] Web: transferring to Kielder Forest Assembly, which is responsible Forest Protection and www.bio.ic.ac.uk District, initially as Harvesting for the Commission’s activities Officer, then as FDM. He in Wales.

11 EROSION CONTROL

Farmers laying the foundations of a new stone bund

SUSTAINABLE SOIL AND WATER MANAGEMENT Vaughan Redfern IN SUB SAHARAN AFRICA

he semiarid area of the use of stone bunds as a soil Silsoe College students to set up northeastern Ghana and and water management tool.The TRAX Program Support in Tnorthwestern Togo bunds work by decreasing the Ghana in 1989. Known supports a predominantly rural velocity of overland flow and commonly as TRAX,the group population, mostly dependent on increasing water infiltration. started work with individual rain fed subsistence agriculture. However, the crude construction farmers to improve the BIO NOTE In spite of a landscape that is of these bunds limits their construction of the traditional generally flat or very gently usefulness and, the fact that bunds. Vaughan Redfern is a rural development sloping, soil erosion is very much often they are not correctly consultant and a member of the board of in evidence; the fragile soils aligned along the contour, means Appropriate trustees of TRAX Program Support. If you washed away by the high that they can actually intensify technology would like further information on the intensity rain falling during the soil erosion by concentrating To improve the positioning of work of TRAX, or would like to support one, short wet season. Farmers overland flow. the bunds along the contour, its activities, especially if you could supply in the region have long been It was the recognition of the TRAX introduced the use of the new or used spirit levels, then please aware of the need for soil and need to improve traditional soil ‘A’ frame as a simple levelling contact Vaughan. E-mail: water conservation and management techniques that device.The ‘A’ frame is a [email protected] Website: traditional agriculture features prompted a group of former marvellous example of www.traxafrica.250x.com

12 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 Sustainable Livelihoods maintain a food supply during Programme.With soil and water the dry season when food is conservation at the core of this scarce, with any surplus produce programme, the promotion of sold in the local market.Their improved stone bund development is promoted as an construction continues to be an income generating activity, aimed important activity. It is a proven primarily at women, and along intervention developed from a with activities such as grain traditional and familiar technique milling, shea butter processing and usefully forms the basis for and soap manufacture, they bring developing a range of soil and a much needed cash injection water management techniques into the community. appropriate to each area.The other techniques developed with Sustainable the communities include crop communities residue management, The technical skills required to agroforestry and composting. In undertake these activities are addition, general agricultural developed through the Training

Stone bunds protecting the soil on sloping land appropriate technology. It where the spirit level shows it’s consists of three pieces of wood level, there’s the contour! fastened together to form an ‘A’ The only problem with this approximately 1.5 m high, with method is that spirit levels are the horizontal bar marked at its not available locally. In fact the centre. A plumb line is only way to make them available suspended from the apex and seems to be to import them the ‘A’ frame is level when the from the UK which of course feet of the ‘A’ are on the ground involves a cost to TRAX on top and the plumb line touches the of the existing cost of supplying centre mark.The ‘A’ frame is the farmers with tools such as ‘walked’ along the contour with pick axes, spades and sticks being planted at intervals wheelbarrows. to show the line along which the stone bund should be Sustainable constructed.This is a slow and agriculture TRAX staff inspect a recently completed stone bund painstaking way of marking the TRAX has gained a high contour level and has provided reputation in the region for the advice is given on such subjects Programme. Designed initially to the incentive for the promotion of Low External Input as organic pesticides, the extend the technical skills of development of an alternative Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA) cultivation of fruit trees and TRAX field staff and farmers, this method.This new method uses a and now works with whole livestock production. programme now also runs small spirit level fastened in the communities rather than An important intervention courses for other Non- middle of a 10 m length of string individual farmers, moving into an has been the development of Governmental Organisations which is then tied to a stick at area at the request of the ‘dry season’ gardens; vegetable (NGO) and government each end. One stick is planted in community.The work is carried plots sited near to a reliable agencies in subjects as diverse as the ground with the line then out under three programme water source and fenced against seed storage, book-keeping and stretched across the slope and arms, the largest of which is the livestock.These gardens help to leadership skills.

13 EROSION CONTROL

ENVIRONMENT The third programme arm is the ‘Resource Centre’ which maintains a library of books, journals and videos, primarily on rural development issues. A neighbourly These materials are available to any member of the public.The nuisance – the true Resource Centre also assists communities with the cost of landfills preparation of funding proposals and offers an nvironment Minister, Northern Ireland are not yet Scotland showing the advisory service on community Michael Meacher, has available on a comparable UK strongest and most robust development services. Eannounced the basis. effect on house prices of The three programme publication of a report that The database identifies a proximity to landfill.There is arms have a common aim of looks into the disamenity core data set of 11,300 GB evidence that different types developing sustainable (nuisance) costs of living near landfill sites (some 6,100 of waste site have different livelihoods amongst resource a landfill site in the UK. licensed as operational in fixed disamenity effects. poor communities.This means The study was 1993/94) and the study has Co-disposal of mixed not only improving food undertaken to identify and associated these sites with waste has been the main security and raising income estimate those costs 592,000 housing transactions management approach in the levels but also promoting associated with the local from 1991-2000 inclusive. UK accounting for 55% of community development and nuisance caused by landfill Controlling for both operational sites in 1994/95. effective leadership.The use of activity – as distinguished physical and socio-economic Sites taking 100% bio- a participatory approach to from other environmental factors there remained a degradable material and agricultural and community impacts including green statistically significant stock those with 100% inert development facilitates this house gas effects and the disamenity effect for houses material display no statistically process but the fact that TRAX risks to human health. ‘A located closer than 0.5 miles significant landfill disamenity only works with communities Study to Estimate the to a GB landfill site.This gave effects on house values, while who have invited TRAX to help Disamenity Costs of Landfill in an average reduction of sites taking high rates of them is perhaps the key to Great Britain’ aims to identify about £5,500 in the value of hazardous waste show similar success.This community led and and estimate the disamenity houses lying within the zone size negative disamenity participatory approach has (drawback) costs of landfill in of 0.25 miles from impacts as the average sites. helped to stimulate the Great Britain, that is those operational GB landfill sites While hazardous waste widespread uptake of LEISA by local nuisance costs and about £1,600 for those sites showed some evidence communities in the region. experienced by households between 0.25 and 0.5 miles of negative effects over a Approximately 13,500 people living close to landfill that are of such sites.Taking house larger distance from site than have benefited from the associated with it such as prices at their 1995 values, average landfill, these were activities of TRAX and the odour, dust, litter, noise, but updating for consumer not statistically robust results. programme is currently looking vermin, and visual intrusion. price inflation, this generated to expand into neighbouring The study uses landfill data a mean estimated total MORE INFORMATION Burkina Faso. At the heart of made available by the present value of fixed this success though is a simple Environment Agency and the disamenity of £2,483m at Department for improvement to a traditional Scottish Environmental current prices, with a 5% Environment, Food and form of soil and water Protection Agency together margin of error.Transferring Rural Affairs, Nobel management. with individual house price this 5% margin to the present House, 17 Smith Square, Whilst the long-term goal and ward-based value of fixed disamenity London SW1P 3JR. Tel: of TRAX is to be self-financing, socioeconomic data drawn effects of landfill provides us 020 7238 1133. Fax: 020 TRAX currently depends on from Cambridge with £334,350 and £478,990 7238 5529. Web: the generosity of private and Econometrics’ AHPD per landfill site in GB. www.defra.gov.uk public donors, such as the database (the AHPD This corresponds to a Department for International Geographical Information nominal measure of fixed Development and the UK System was developed by disamenity cost of between National Lottery Charity Board. Cambridge Econometrics to £1.52 and £2.18 per tonne of The development of sustainable explain differences in house landfill at current prices for livelihoods is a slow process; process on the basis of their an assumed average flow of bringing financial sustainability characteristics and location). 100 million tonnes pa for 28 to an NGO is even slower. The study covers Great years at a 6% discount rate. Britain, except for small parts Analysis showed of the North West and East considerable regional Midlands where data are not differences in the impact of currently available. Data for landfill disamenity, with

14 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 Bimonthly LATE SPRING 2003 MEMBERSHIP

MATTERSTHE NEWSLETTER OF THE INSTITUTION OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS RASE’S AWARDS SCHEME SAVED FOR FURTHER YEAR

he Royal Agricultural Machinery Awards Scheme was machinery specialists, and the examined at Stoneleigh and Society’s Machinery too important to lose,” says Mr awards scheme operating costs may lead to the award of an TAwards Scheme has Finney. include travel expenses Award of Merit or a Silver won a reprieve for at least one “As there is no immediate incurred when judges visit Medal. Machines of outstanding more year. It was axed when prospect of sponsorship, we farms to interview equipment importance, with particular Lloyds TSB decided not to need to make the scheme self- owners and operators. relevance to current needs of renew its sponsorship financing. One way to raise These unique awards the industry, and showing a agreement, which ended at this extra income is from the entry depend almost entirely on field high degree of innovation may year’s Royal Show. Operating fees, and we have proposed a assessment of the machines. be awarded a Gold Medal. costs were funded by the flat rate of £300,” he says.“I Laboratory and research “The Society has agreed to sponsorship deal, said to be contacted a number of station results, when available, continue the awards scheme worth £10,500 a year, plus machinery companies to check are taken into account, but are on this basis for 2003, and we entry fees of £150 for companies exhibiting at the Royal and £300 for non- “The Society has agreed to continue the awards exhibitors. scheme on this basis for 2003, and we have been When efforts to attract an alternative sponsor failed, the using Smithfield Show as an opportunity to invite Society decided to abandon machinery companies to submit entries.” the awards and concentrate on alternative ideas to focus interest on machinery at next year’s show. their reaction, and the result secondary to user experience. have been using Smithfield Brian Finney – who runs has been completely positive. In A group of seventeen farmers, Show as an opportunity to the awards scheme and is the fact, it also produced some contractors, journalists and invite machinery companies to RASE honorary consulting entries for next year’s awards.” researchers, selected for their submit entries.We all hope engineer – plus members of Mr Finney also has the full separate and joint knowledge that the scheme will once the scheme’s judging panel, support of the awards scheme of farm machinery, visit users more become a permanent helped to win the reprieve. judging panel, and members throughout the country to part of the RASE’s services to “The RASE has been testing have agreed to continue investigate and discuss all the farming industry,” says Mr and assessing farm equipment supporting the scheme in the aspects of machine Finney. for more than 150 years, and absence of sponsorship.The performance and costs.The [Sources: RASE; Mike Williams, some of us feel that the judges are farmers and information is pooled and Farmer’s Weekly]

1 NEWS for MEMBERS

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

ONE OF THE New opportunity for international LEADING ITALIAN recognition for UK ENGINEERS engineers he Engineering Engineers who meet speci- Council (UK) today fied post-graduation registra- Tannounced the official tion criteria. The Pioneering Technology launched the first true Diesel opening of the UK section of Engineering is an increas- Group held a technical powered tractor.The year the International Register of ingly global industry, with UK meeting in conjunction with 1952 saw the launch of the Professional Engineers. engineers working through- the West Midlands branch, it first properly designed four The Register offers out the world. It is hoped was held at SAME Deutz Fahr wheel drive tractor. It had a Chartered Engineers holding that the Register will remove Ltd at Barby near Rugby. They three-point linkage a recognised degree, and many barriers that exist to are the UK concessionaires incorporating hydraulic load with at least 7 years’ experi- mobility between signatory and importers of the SAME sensing and did not infringe ence, the opportunity to join countries, particularly where range of tractors. any Ferguson Patents.When their peers from other signa- issues of licensing to practice Andrew Sinstadt, the there was a suspicion that tory countries in gaining currently preclude move- one of the recognition in other jurisdic- ment. Although not provid- Patents might tions. While not precluding ing, at this time, mutual have been recognition of other regis- recognition of professional infringed he tered engineers, it takes title the signatories are com- redesigned the advantage of the growing mitted to making easier the control valve to mutual confidence in regis- admittance to National remove this tration systems in Registers of incoming engi- suspicion. Washington Accord and neers who are on the However, it is allied countries, and International Register. suggested that responds to increasing the design of one demands from multinational MORE INFORMATION of his tractors to companies for easier ways of look, at a recognising professionally Enquiries about the distance, rather qualified engineers International Register like a Massey Welcoming the opening of Professional Ferguson 65 was of the Register to UK engi- Engineers can be a deliberate neers, EC(UK) International directed to Chris taunting.Visit Advisory Panel Chairman, Simpson, Executive, their office at David Long said:“globalisa- International Four Wheels Ahead – a biography and the history of SAME tractors Badby and see tion has provided new Recognition, EC(UK) , the six-cylinder opportunities for UK engi- 10 Maltravers Street, air cooled model neers, and their employers. London, WC2R 3ER. E- brand manger for SAME, on display to make up your This important development mail: challenged us to compare own mind! will aid international trade in [email protected] Francesco Cassani with Harry Andrew Sinstadt donated engineering services”. Ferguson, who he assumed to the Institution some copies Whilst the Washington Details about we knew a lot about, and of ‘Four Wheels Ahead’ the Accord is solely concerned International Register then told us of the biography of Francesco with accredited undergradu- requirements alongwith developments of the Cassani Cassani and the history of ate degrees conferred within application forms and family in particular Francesco SAME tractors.There are signatory countries, the guidance notes are and left us to draw our own copies in the Institution International Register focuses available from the conclusions! libraries. If you would like on the full formation of pro- EC(UK) website, at Francesco took over the to borrow a copy please fessional engineers. In the www.engc.org.uk/inter- running of his fathers contact the Secretariat UK the International Register national/irpe.asp blacksmith business at the age on 01525 861096. is open to Chartered of 10 and in 1928 had William Waddilove

2 MEMBERSHIP MATTERS LATE SPRING 2003 SPONSORED STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

Douglas Bomford Trust Miss C B E Huber L B J O’Donnell D Chisholm sponsored students from the B Paque D Rapkins B I Cradock following organisations, have H I Rogge J W Sheppard M Elliott been admitted to student mem- Ms J Wheeler M R Spicer D French-Gildersleve bership. Miss S Dean S J Vincent S Guzman-Enriquez Miss S H M O’Keefe N P West S Hanney Askham Bryan College. Mrs I S C Merlin-Jones Ager J W Champ O M Hodnebrog C P O Chapman T F Collett Ms S Jarmambula D J Brocksopp M Cracknell S J Coxwell Ms R Jeyaprakash T S Cheesbrough E De Naurois M J Dixon A King J W Coy Ms H C Gardner M Elderfield J G Kireia T M Gardman Miss R Hughes W Farmer O J Nice C G Gill Miss S Legg J G Gerrard O Sharif R N Hinchliffe J E McDevitt A M J Hallett G Page R A Hepworth Miss S E Cooper S Read W L Rodwell B J Kingsbury Ms I Ferrer-Marti D Roberts M C Roe W C Lambert Miss A E Rawlins G C Ryan I Roussis C W Monkman T R Shewell Ruhai Che C Shaw Wiltshire College Lackham B T Willis Z Slezacek M P Taylor H Smallbone M J Winder C J Arnold Writtle College K H Smith S D Edwards I Spathis Cranfield University M Freeman S Aldridge G Suazo N J Grubb W Barrage I Cleaver D M Reynolds P A Hill M J Barrett J J Ferrer Gonzalez A A Abdawani D J Hutton M Bateman M I Payne A Balafoutis A J Luke A H Biney-Hayford R T Borland S Melrose J Chillingworth

Membership Changes DOES ANYONE Student Death IAgrE E M N Batchelor (Cranfield J C Hawkins (Bedford) KNOW THE Admissions University) Fellow S L Jones (Walford & North WHEREABOUTS? M Broom (Cheshire) Shropshire College) Engineering R Purdy (South Yorkshire) Council Philip James J Swift (West Midlands) Registrations Baumber Transfers EngTech 9 Main Street, Member Fellow D J Booth (Dorset) Scopwick, Lincoln LN4 J O Daudu (Nigeria) J Blackwell (Australia) 3NR T Lee (Essex) M StJ Carr-West (Essex) J G Richards (Bedford) P F Hemingway (Staffordshire) Simon Peter Irwin A Williams (Shropshire) R E Hughes (Essex) 4 Spruce Drive, Bicester, Oxfordshire Associate Member Member OX26 3YN M Dresser (Bedfordshire) R J Goldsmith (Buckinghamshire) A C Williamson (Cumbria) Associate D R A M Lopes (Australia) Associate A W Mason (North Yorkshire) T King (Ireland)

3 NEWS for MEMBERS

DEFINING THE FUTURE OF ENGINEERING radical review of the which these competencies will compromising standards.We before we proceed to write the standards for registra- be acquired. have also taken into account the standard.” Ation of Engineers and Care has been taken to changing international scene and Alan Clark, CEO of ETB, technicians has resulted in a ensure that the great number of new developments in education said:“We welcome this first draft specification: UK-SPEC (UK those striving to meet the and training – Modern important step in the review of Standards for Professional requirements of the EC(UK)’s Apprenticeships, Foundation professional registration in the Engineering Competence), current standard, SARTOR 3, Degrees and the successful UK.The timing of this consulta- issued for comment in March to are not disadvantaged. widespread adoption of MEng tion means that the results of a wide range of interested Considerable thought has also Degrees”. ETB research into industry employers, institutions and edu- gone into ensuring the standard Andrew Ramsay, EC(UK)’s views, and particularly research cational establishments. will be compatible with existing Executive director, said:“It is on Chartered Technologist and The specification consists of company schemes and educa- important we get this revision Professional Engineering two documents – one con- tion programmes – though right. Many of the good ideas Technician, will be available in cerned with the competences some changes will be inevitable. that first appeared in the 1997 good time to influence the final required by professional engi- Steering Group Chairman, Standard (SARTOR 3) were document. neers, the other with those for Professor Kel Fidler,Vice overlooked simply because of its engineering technicians. In 12 Chancellor of Northumbria lack of clarity, and the opposition MORE INFORMATION pages of A4, the documents University, said “We have already generated by the decision to attempt to summarise the prin- consulted widely and hope that use an entry standard based on UK-SPEC is available at cipal characteristics that will be UK-SPEC will be seen to reflect A-level points.This time we are www.engc.org.uk/registra- required for 21st century prac- the widespread wish to widen seeking a widespread consensus tion/standards_review.asp tice, and indicate the way in access to registration without – particularly from industry –

Academic Members Commercial Members

Askham Bryan College Pencoed College Autoguide Equipment Ltd industries Askham Bryan Pencoed Stockley Road Highdown Cottage Yo r k Bridgend Heddington Compton Down YO23 3FR CF35 5LG Calne Winchester Wiltshire Hampshire Cranfield University Silsoe Reaseheath College SN11 0PS SO21 2AP Bedford Reaseheath MK45 4DT Nantwich Douglas Bomford Trust Law-Denis Engineering Ltd Cheshire 16 The Oaks Millstream Works Duchy College CW5 6DF Silsoe Station Road Rosewarne Bedford Wickwar Camborne Scottish Agricultural College MK45 4EL Wotton-under-Edge Cornwall SAC Ayr Campus Gloucestershire TR14 0AB Auchincruive Estate Bomford Turner Limited GL12 8NB Ayr Salford Priors Harper Adams University KA6 5HW Evesham David Ritchie (Implements) Ltd College Worcestershire Carseview Road Newport Sparsholt College WR11 5SW Suttieside Shropshire Sparsholt Forfar TF10 8NB Winchester John Deere Ltd Angus Hampshire Harby Road DD8 3EE Myerscough College SO21 2NF Langar Myerscough Hall Nottinghamshire Rotomation Ltd Bilsborrow Wiltshire College – Lackham NG13 9HT Summerwood Lane Preston Lacock Halsall Lancashire Chippenham FEC Services Ormskirk PR3 0RY Wiltshire NAC Lancashire SN15 2NY Stoneleigh Park L39 8RH Oatridge Agricultural College Kenilworth Ecclesmachan Writtle Agricultural College Warwickshire White Horse Contractors Ltd Broxburn Chelmsford CV8 2LS Lodge Hill West Lothian Essex Abingdon EH52 6NH CM1 3RR G C Professional Services Oxfordshire for land-based and related OX14 2JD

Produced by: Land Technology Ltd, Edinburgh Printed by: Barr Printers, Glenrothes

INSTITUTION of AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS, WEST END ROAD, SILSOE, BEDFORD, MK45 4DU, 4 MEMBERSHIP MATTERS EARLY SPRING 2003UNITED KINGDOM. Tel: 01525 861096 Fax: 01525 861660 ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER

Standen Vision potato harvester and light cable connections to the tractor bottom left

HARVESTING WITH Morten Moller CAN-bus

Introduction often on a daily basis. A 26-page the operator to view and set discharge elevator height, depth As agricultural machines have control protocol was circulated defaults for flow rates, delay and control and axle steering developed in complexity, to various electronic and response times and to monitor position can be plugged into the customers have demanded more hydraulic supply companies to pressures in circuits, a main job processor. Either a operator control.The latest obtain a practical solution. Wachendorff OPUS Light controller model type ESX- version of the Standen fourline operator display panel is DIOS or ESX-DIOM slave Engineering Vision potato CAN-bus application inset in the fascia. Password module is used to achieve the harvester features 55 individual Standen’s main hydraulic valve protected second and third required number of proportional switching signals, with which the supplier Bucher Hydraulic levels of access to the display or digital outputs. operator can control 30 proposed a CAN-bus system allow override parameters to be Standen has been able to individual functions. using the robust and already set by service engineers and a introduce the CAN-bus system Standen Engineering has been proven Sensor-Technik modules step-through operator diagnostic and has achieved savings in manufacturing agricultural with software written by menu to be used in conjunction production costs with a higher machinery in Ely, Cambridgeshire Bucher’s electronic division. A with the control panel to display control specification.This is since the 1930s. During the prototype system was tested valve coil current and voltage. mainly due to the savings in 1970s, as hydraulic controls during the 2000 harvesting The system drives between 18 commissioning times, when the became more common on farm season, with four machines and 24 valves, depending on the machine is first run up and the machinery, the company was working during the 2001 season. customer specification for the ease of in-field setting when the one of the first to use solenoid The systems have worked with machine. customer starts to operate the operated valves, switched from the minimum of fine tuning to machine. Owing to the simplicity the tractor cab to operate the the software, and have proved to Harvesting system of the wiring loom required, services on the machines. be extremely reliable, giving development bringing the wiring in house has Standen enough confidence for During the development of the made additional cost savings. Cabling and control the 2002 production to build all system, several functions, which Specialist contractors produce constraints machines with CAN-bus control could only be manually preset only the distribution circuit In 1999, Standen’s engineering system as standard. on the harvester, were board, which Standen has team realised that the practical The driver interface control converted to in-cab adjustments produced to interconnect the limits of wiring had been unit has a membrane fascia, allowing the operator far more elements of the system and the reached, especially as the wiring interfaced to the bus with a 56- control on the quality of the fascia. from the tractor to the channel input and an indicator crop sample produced by the Development does not stand harvester is 15 m long and has output module with 32 light harvester. Optional automatic still and the ease of to be able to be disconnected, emitting diodes (LEDs).To allow sensors for machine levelling, programming available allows for

15 ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER

ongoing software upgrades to be several pieces of equipment, a recognising data error, and it has topology and real time capability. flashed onto the processor pair of conductors along which the capability of being able to Unique ‘identifiers’ contain module from a laptop computer serial data is transmitted to correct them with only very little information not directly related in the field, giving the customer different locations like passengers loss of time.This, together with to the address of the participant the benefits of improvements. transported to different points many other functions such as but to the contents of the Sensor-Technik Wiedemann along the bus route.The CAN- error flag, etc., makes the bus message. All participants check GmbH (STW) modules are bus is effectively an advanced ideal in an electrically noisy out the identifier being single plug connection and in the version of the RS232/485 – the environment where transmitted and decide if the unlikely event of a failure, a standard interface for computer earthing/grounding can be a type of message is related to preprogrammed replacement and telecommunications systems. problem. themselves.This way all the can be fitted by a semiskilled messages can be received from many or all of the participants simultaneously. Each unit has its unique identifier which also includes the priority to ensure that the highest priority unit is guaranteed bus access, preventing conflicts of simultaneously transmission.

Two universal controllers with CAN- bus for hydraulics on vehicles Initially developed for farm machinery applications, sensor manufacturer Sensor-Technik Wiedemann GmbH (STW) now also offers their universal electronic controller for other industries. Units are developed specially for direct sensor- actuator management in a compact and robust construction and forms the trend in bus-networking in various industries. The integration of electronic controls in vehicles and machinery gives savings on design, construction and cabling, Driver Interface control unit for the Standen Vision harvester and together with the user friendly programming, offers outstanding operational person very quickly to keep the Where does it come Cabling hardware? possibilities.This sounds like ‘an machine operating in operations from? A pair of wires suffices as answered prayer’ to machine where timeliness is vital. The CAN-bus was originally transmission medium (making manufacturers, which are under developed by Bosch for use in wiring very easy).The length of pressure to improve their Main station the automotive industry and has cable at maximum transfer rate products and keep cost low. for bus users now established itself as an is 1 Mbit/s up to 40 metres. The standard unit gives CAN-bus: what is it? International norm ISO 11898. Networks without repeaters equipment facilities on vehicles A controller area network Owing to its wide usage over handle up to 1000 metres with for agriculture and construction, (CAN) operates like a cricket the years, the component cost rates of 80 kbit/s. as well as on textile and tooling team with all its players knowing has become very reasonable and machinery.This central controller what to do, but still able to talk the protocol has spread into How many units can can be used in applications such to each other, and with an other industries. be used in systems? as steering by wire, anti-lock umpire to judge the game and The number is in theory braking, anti-slip regulation, register any unfair play by the Why CAN-bus? unlimited, but it all depends on motor management, automatic participants. Basically, the bus is The benefit is high transfer rate the integrated circuits (lCs) used gear shift, platform inclination, just a method of communication and high transmitter reliability in the equipment. CAN is a true etc. between two computers or with functions such as Multimaster System with line Networking in machinery and

16 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 vehicles offers a range of controller model ESX with a RECYCLING benefits: single CAN-bus interface and the • every user on the network EST, which has two CAN-bus has data and system connections, both real-time information available; systems work as individual units From finished plate to • every user has access to the in a bigger process system. bus at any time; The ESX can be customer fertiliser – when does • all information is available in specified with the expansion real-time; boards using two standard recycling become • all data is digitally transferred, internal interfaces and various giving accurate and precise modules to provide up to 12 environmental madness?

Did you know that DEFRA is other wild animals, adding to currently considering proposals already growing populations. that will permit composted catering waste containing meat The UKRA believes the from restaurants and kitchens to Government is taking unwar- be used as fertiliser on farm- ranted risks by proposing these land? You could be out for a moves. It, and other sectors of weekend walk, and stumble the food and farming industries, across the food you left on your have written to MPs with agri- plate the last time you went out cultural and food interests ask- for a meal – or your dog could ing them to influence DEFRA run off with a tasty bone that and the Government.We could have started life anywhere believe changes must be made Sensor-Technik CAN-bus controllers in the world. to this proposal before it becomes law. • It’s inevitable that some of While, in principle, we are in information; additional input or output ports. this material will include ille- favour of extending composting, • system diagnosis is available; gal meat imports. in part to meet the require- • number of controllers may Conclusion • It can be uncooked, and up ments of the Landfill Directive work in tandem and/or be The digital communication age to 40 cm diameter in size for biodegradable waste, we do integrated into a network; has arrived and will develop the equivalent of two Sunday not agree to these current pro- and much further over the next few roasts laid end to end. posals. • safety criteria can be years.The CAN-bus interface • Existing composting systems customised. technology is currently one of have not been proved to kill The controllers are of robust the fastest growing areas with exotic viruses such as those MORE INFORMATION construction and are ideal for substantial investment and responsible for Foot and United Kingdom Renderers’ harsh environments, with safety extensive development of Mouth.To be fully effective Association, St Martha’s compliance to electromagnetic controls, sensors, interface the material must be heated lodge, One Tree Hill Road, compatibility (EMC), and equipment, etc. continuously for a specified Guildford GU4 9PJ. Tel: customised numbers and types The digital communication age period. 01483 503701. Fax: 01483 of inputs and outputs.The is here to stay! • Composting systems have no 502137. E-mail: controller itself consists of an impact at all on the destruc- [email protected] electrical-erasable programmable MORE INFORMATION tion of the BSE agent which UKRA information line: 024 read only memory (EEPROM) Contact: Robin Gaborn at we know can survive for 7641 8704. Web: where all calibrated data and Standen Engineering. Tel: long periods in the soil. A www.ukra.co.uk E-mail: critical parameters can be stored. 01353 661111 Fax: 01353 ticking bomb will be under [email protected] Using an editor, this data may be 666 202 Web: the ground wherever this accessed on either the CAN-bus www.standen.co.uk waste is spread. or the RS232 interface. • DEFRA is proposing that ani- The function library with Contact: Morten Moller at mals will not be allowed to ready-to-use function Sensor-Technik UK Ltd (a graze on the land to which components provides the wholly owned subsidiary this waste has been applied possibility to quick and easy of Sensor-Technik for a period of two months. programming application Wiedemann GmbH). Tel: Why, if it is a safe practice, software and may even be used 01234 782049 E-mail: and who on earth is going to without previous knowledge of morten@sensor- police it? any high level languages. technik.co.uk Web: • Food spread across farmland There are two versions of the www.sensor-technik.co.uk will attract rats, foxes and

17 NEWS SCAN

AMALGAMATION A strong team

he world market for agri- to these sales partners, whether Agriculture confirms “This is a tributed approximately 9,500 cultural machinery will they are the sales partner of partnership, which was intended tractors last year. Tsoon be witness to a new Claas or of Renault Agriculture. by Renault Agriculture to move Clive Last, Chief Executive of alliance. Renault Agriculture will Therefore, the new alliance from the isolated position of a Claas UK added:“The become a new member of the serves primarily to secure the tractor specialist to create a new Claas/Renault deal protects the Claas group. Shareholders and distribution of France, which is agricultural competence in French distribution network management of Claas and Western Europe’s biggest agricul- Europe together with Claas.This where 70% of the Claas dealers Renault have signed correspon- tural machinery market. But also is a unique opportunity for the also promote the Renault fran- ding agreements. in other Western European mar- new team to benefit from the chise and nearly half of which Claas is initially going to take kets, we wish to offer our sales technology, the image and the are Renault owned branches. over 51% and in 2 – 3 years partners an attractive long-term awareness of the two brands. France is the biggest European 80% of the shares of Renault alternative”, emphasises Lothar The characteristics of a partner- market for agricultural products Agriculture – given the approval Kriszun, Executive Vice President ship of two complementary and represents more than 20% of the anti trust authorities. of Claas for Sales and Service. companies is that each business of the Claas revenue. Rüdiger A. Günther, Central and Eastern can build on its strength, provide “In Britain, Claas have no Executive President of Claas European markets also have a more added value for the cus- shared dealers with Renault and announced “The joining of these demand for powerful and cost- tomers and be attractive to a we are more than happy with two agricultural machinery spe- effective equipment.The exten- distribution network.” the balance that Valtra and cialists is a logical step and does sion of the distribution network The new partnership will McCormick have brought to our make a lot of sense from a will be supported by the form a supporting pillar for prof- dealers in recent years.We strategic point of view.This enhanced product offer. itable growth of the enlarged intend to continue as at present agreement will allow us to build Kriszun said,“We want to Claas group. Strong partners with Renault UK marketing their upon the core strengths of Claas strengthen the core businesses guarantee a successful future. products separately to their and Renault Agriculture.The of Claas harvesting technology Claas is one of the leading independent dealer base. Claas planned increased investment in and Renault tractors in their global harvesting machinery spe- still sees itself as a specialist pro- technology and quality will pro- present structure. It is the cus- cialists. In business year 2002, ducer and marketer of vide a real opportunity for us to tom of both Claas and Renault sales increased by more than Harvesting Machinery.This make a broadened portfolio of to reach a common decision 10% to 1.27 billion with profit remains our core competence products available to our dealers with our distribution partners on before tax increasing by almost and will continue to be the main and customers.” the market strategy. In the fol- 55% to 55.8 million; Claas focus of attention and future The success of the Claas lowing months we are going to employed 6,114 individuals. success.” company – in the last 10 years work on strategies with our dis- Renault Agriculture, with a the average annual growth rate tribution partners on a national market share of 18.4%, is one of MORE INFORMATION amounted to 11% – is based on level in order to find the best the leading tractor manufacturers Claas U.K. Limited, Saxham, outstanding products and on first solution. After this process, a in France.The company generat- Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk class service, as well as on the clear concept for each market ed turnover of 637 million in 1P28 6QZ. Tel: +44 (0)1284 strong performance of the local will be communicated. the last business year.The tractor 763100 Fax: +44 (0)1284 sales partner.“For us, it is impor- Guy Povie, President manufacturer employs 2,074 769839 Website: tant to guarantee a stable future Directeur Général de Renault people who produced and dis- www.claas.co.uk

HEALTH AND SAFETY Specialist tree surgery harness Tractel’s range of ‘Willans Arborists’ able over long periods and will also The Willans Suspension harnesses is probably the most allow them the maximum freedom Hamesses are now distributed by highly regarded height safety of movement to carry out their Tractel (UK) Ltd. restraint in the specialist tree sur- job. gery business. Developed for this highly spe- MORE INFORMATION Unlike other harness wearers cialist area, the classic suspension For more information contact: who use safety harnesses as pro- harness has padded leg, waist and Tractel (UK) Ltd, Old Lane, tection from potential fails, the tree back straps, carefully positioned Halfway, Sheffield, S20 3GA. surgeon is often suspended in a front D rings and attachments for Tel: +44 (0)1142 482266 Fax: harness for many hours a day. It is work positioning. These harnesses +44 (0)1142 473350 E-mail: essential, therefore, that the harness conform to CE EN 361, EN 358 [email protected] Website: they chose will be both comfort- and EN 813. www.tractel.com

18 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 FORESTRY Timber walls and Scottish weather – can they live together?

ore timber walls only rich people had stone many countries with climates result in the expansion of local appearing on houses. similar to ours. employment in the forestry and Mbuildings in Scotland “Moreover, countries with “This project will address timber-processing sectors.This could be the result of a similar maritime climates, such these problems by investigating can only be good news for the research project just launched as Norway, the Faroes, Iceland the widespread and satisfactory Highlands.” by building and timber experts and coastal Canada, continue to use of timber cladding in the Cllr Park said the project from Scotland, Norway, Iceland use durable, timber-clad partner countries of Norway, would support the Council’s and the Faroe Islands. And the buildings very successfully. I’m Iceland and the Faroes. It will efforts, through planning policy timber could be grown in therefore delighted that promote best practice in design guidance for sustainable Scotland, because one of the through this project we will be and detailing to safeguard development, to promote objectives of the three-year, able to draw on their against moisture problems.“By energy efficiency and the use of European Union-funded project experience to calculate the working together to solve these locally sourced materials such will be to explore the potential potential for using home-grown problems, the Council and its as timber.The establishment of for using more Scottish timber Sitka spruce for timber partners aim to demonstrate rigorously tested design on the outside walls of cladding, and for developing a the effectiveness of timber for detailing should encourage a buildings.The project, entitled new market for our growing long-term external use and greater confidence in the use of ‘External Timber Cladding in timber production.” improved building performance. external softwood timber Maritime Conditions’, is part- The project will be led by Through this we hope to cladding by the construction funded by the EU’s Northern Highland Council, whose stimulate the demand for locally industry. Periphery Programme, and in Sustainable Development grown timber, which will have Scottish partners include Scotland it will look at whether Committee chairman, Cllr Ian positive spin-offs in terms of Highland Council, the Forestry Scotland’s expanding Ross, said,“Buildings in the promoting sustainable Commission, the Scottish production of Sitka spruce north and west of Scotland can development.” Executive, Highlands & Islands timber is suitable. be severely exposed to wind- The chairman of the Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish Forestry Trust and sawmillers James Jones & Sons “countries with similar maritime climates, such as Ltd and BSW Timber plc. Norway, the Faroes, Iceland and coastal Canada, continue to use durable, timber-clad buildings very MORE INFORMATION Bob Shannon, Highland successfully” Council. Tel: 01463 702270. E-mail: [email protected] v.uk or Derek Nelson, Announcing the EU driven rain, leading to a Council’s Planning, Forestry Commission. Tel: funding, Scottish Forestry concern that moisture will Development, Europe and 0131 314 6159. E-mail: Minister Allan Wilson said, penetrate timber-clad external Tourism Committee, Cllr Sandy [email protected]. “Modern Scots tend to think of walls and lead to building Park, also welcomed the gov.uk brick and stone as their failure. Such perceptions have Council’s involvement in the traditional building materials, led Scottish builders to shy project.“The Highlands have and that timber-clad buildings away from timber for external sustainable forests and we now would be unsuitable in our use.This is to be regretted, need new products and climate. In fact, until about 300 because timber is such a readily processes to add value to this years ago most buildings in available and renewable resource,” he said.“This project Scotland were made of wood; resource that is widely used in will do just that, and could

19 NEWS SCAN

ENVIRONMENT Be money wise – get ‘Waterwise

Framework proposals for agri- manage land in ways that will Environment Agency has recent- water requiring treatment environment schemes minimise or mitigate against ly launched Waterwise on the and disposal; announced today by the flooding impacts would be a Farm, something that will also • save money and increase Department for the practical element of wider help farmers save themselves profit; Environment, Food and Rural catchment flood management money.The publication includes • improve environmental per- Affairs (Defra) are a huge step planning, and also provide extra details on how to take a water formance. forward for the environment in benefits for wildlife and biodiver- audit and develop a Waterwise England. sity. Action Plan on the farm. It is Real-life examples of water Helen Richardson, agricultur- Work carried out by the aimed to help farmers to: efficiency on the farm are pro- al policy manager for the Environment Agency has esti- vided in the form of case studies Environment Agency said:“We mated that drainage to soil from • reduce water and energy and practical advice that has are pleased to see that protec- farming costs in the region of use; been tried and tested by LEAF tion of the natural resources of £264 million a year, but that this • reduce the quantity of dirty and NFU members. water, soil and air are to be a cost could be reduced by 75% key objective of agri-environ- through simple changes to farm MORE INFORMATION ment schemes in the future. management practices. Good soil and nutrient manage- Environmental damage to Free copies of the booklet are available. Tel: 01903 832073. E- ment will deliver environmental water costs around £203 million mail: [email protected] Web: www.envi- benefits at low cost – helping to a year, but could be reduced by ronment-agency.gov.uk/savewater (agriculture section) tackle pollution and providing a about two thirds, again by mak- better environment for wildlife. ing simple changes to practice. For small and medium sized farms, a new Environment A firm foundation of natural The Agency believes examples Agency initiative – NetRegs – has been designed to help resource protection is critical for that could be encouraged farmers to comply with their environmental responsibilities the rural economy.” include soil and nutrient man- without having to contact the regulator. The site – www.envi- The Agency said that the agement planning, ditch manage- ronment-agency.gov.uk/netregs offers easy to understand option of including flood man- ment and, integrated crop man- guidelines on environmental legislation affecting the industry, agement as part of the agri-envi- agement. covering everything from agricultural waste and emissions to ronment framework should be To promote greater water water, to disposal of animal carcasses and fuel storage. pursued. Payments to farmers to efficiency within agriculture, the

HEALTH AND SAFETY New HSE booklet highlights dangers of working at height in farming

A new ‘black spot’ report high- published the findings in this using the correct equipment by which work at height is car- lighting the dangers of falls booklet. All too often falls have for carrying out safely any ried out, and how the use of from heights in the agricultural occurred because risks were work at height. appropriate equipment can industry has been launched by not properly assessed and lit- “Some fatal accidents and reduce the risk of falling”. the Health and Safety tle, or no, safety equipment many serious injuries occur MORE INFORMATION Executive (HSE).The report was used. Many of these acci- because the wrong equipment shows that in the past ten dents occurred during roof is used. For example, accidents Copies of Why fall for it? years, falls from height have work and involved falls happen when ladders are used Preventing falls in agricul- claimed 80 lives and is the sec- through roof sheets and roof for work which could be done ture (INDG369), are avail- ond largest cause of fatalities lights. more safely from alternative able free from HSE Books, in the agricultural sector. “The fragile nature of access equipment such as a PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Launching the publication many roofing materials is con- scaffold tower or a work plat- Suffolk, C010 2WA.Tel: Why fall for it? Preventing falls in stantly ignored as farmers form on a materials handler.” 01787 881165. Fax: 01787 agriculture, Linda Williams, appear to take chances, risking Mrs Williams added: “I 313995. Priced publications HSE’s Chief Inspector of serious injury and even death. hope this booklet will show are also available from HSE Agriculture, said: “HSE has The booklet highlights the people the importance of Books and good booksellers. analysed accident statistics and importance of selecting and properly planning the means

20 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 HEALTH AND SAFETY Guidance to help employers investigate accidents at work

The Health and Safety Executive to introduce specific legal HSC Chair Bill Callaghan incidents, and also ‘near misses’ – (HSE) will issue new guidance requirements on employers and said:“We want people to learn serious health and safety failures later this year to help employers others to investigate incidents the lessons from work-related where no one is injured. investigate incidents that cause reportable under the Reporting incidents with the potential to The guidance will come in a injuries and ill health in the work of Injuries, Diseases and cause injury and ill health so that range of formats and the first of place. Dangerous Occurrences they can prevent similar occur- these will be published later this The decision to issue the Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR). rences in the future.We recog- year.They will include paper and guidance, rather than to recom- There was overwhelming nise that some employers need software investigation tools, and mend legislation to require support for the principle of help to tackle this issue, so we basic and more detailed infor- employers to investigate inci- using incident investigations to are preparing a range of guid- mation leaflets. dents, was taken by the Health learn lessons and prevent work- ance material.We will monitor and Safety Commission (HSC) place injury and ill health, and a the effectiveness of this guidance MORE INFORMATION at its meeting last month after range of views over how that closely – and if there is no Copies of ‘Accident investi- taking views in response to a could best be achieved. improvement in incident investi- gation – The drivers, meth- wide-ranging consultation exer- Research commissioned by HSE gation then we may consider ods and outcomes’, (CRR cise. into current practice, published the possibility of recommending 344/2001, ISBN 0 7176 HSE received 684 responses in Accident investigation – The new legislation.” 2022 0), price £25.00, are to the 1998 discussion docu- drivers, methods and outcomes In 2001/2, 249 people died available from HSE Books, ment A new duty to investigate revealed widespread lack of and 27,477 more suffered major PO Box 1999, Sudbury, accidents, and 460 to the 2001 confidence in carrying out such injury through work activity, Suffolk, C010 2WA. Tel: consultative document, Proposals investigations, and many felt that while 40.2 million days off work 01787 881165. Fax: 01787 for a new duty to investigate acci- guidance to address this knowl- were caused by work-related 313995. Web: dents dangerous occurrences and edge gap would be more helpful injury and illness. Lessons can be www.hse.gov.uk/research/crr diseases. This set out proposals than a legal duty. learned by investigating these _pdf/2001/crr01344.pdf

FOOD PROCESSING SGS accredited for new food packaging standard

International certification wood, comes into force in June subject to two 6-monthly Equipment (89/686/EEC), organisation, SGS United 2003. Compliance is expected to surveillance visits and an annual Electrical Products (73/23/EEC Kingdom Ltd, has received be mandatory for all food follow-up audit thereafter. and 89/336/EEC), Gas Appliances accreditation from the United packaging suppliers to major UK Certification Manager, Chris (90/396/EEC), Machinery Kingdom Accreditation Service retailers. Jepson believes SGS’ worldwide (Machinery Safety Regulations (UKAS) to audit against a new To achieve certification, experience of auditing makes it 1992), Manhole covers (EN124) food packaging standard for the manufacturers will need to an obvious choice for packaging and Pharmaceutical Packaging UK retail industry. demonstrate compliance to the suppliers seeking certification: (PS 9000). It allows SGS to audit and requirements set out in the “SGS has been auditing against a Through its Consumer issue certificates against the new BRC/IOP Technical Standard and plethora of product Standards Products Division, SGS United protocol which was developed Protocol for Companies and regulations for many years,” Kingdom Ltd provides a portfolio jointly by the British Retail Supplying Food Packaging he says,“Our overseas network of modular technical support Consortium (BRC) and the UK’s Materials for Retailer Branded of offices and affiliates will also services developed specifically Institute of Packaging (IOP).The Food Products. Audits will be enable us to audit the Standard for the retail industry. announcement comes after a 12 conducted on-site and include on a global basis”. month pilot programme which assessment of procedures for This latest UKAS MORE INFORMATION SGS participated in. contamination and pest control, accreditation extends SGS SGS United Kingdom Ltd, The Standard, which is personal hygiene, raw material United Kingdom’s scope for SGS House, 217/221 London applicable to a wide range of handling, product flow, product certification activities Road, Camberley, Surrey, primary and secondary food housekeeping, waste disposal as which includes the following GU15 3EY.Tel: +44 (0) 1276 containers, packaging materials well as a review of the products:Toys (EN71 and 697 675. Fax: +44 (0) 1276 and labelling made from glass, company’s technical management 88/378/EEC), Medical Devices 697 696. E-mail: paper, board, metals, plastics and system. Certificates will be (93/42/EEC), Personal Protective [email protected]

21 Book Reviews

Woodlands – A Practical Handbook Elizabeth Agate

The UK’s largest practical • using coppiced material for MORE INFORMATION conservation charity, BTCV has green woodworking; published a new edition of • charcoal burning; Woodlands – A Practical Handbook, is now available priced Woodlands – A Practical • provision of access in £13.95 (plus £3 postage and packing). BTCV Enterprises Handbook. One of a series of woodlands; Ltd, Balby Road, Doncaster DN4 0RH. Tel: 01302 572200. handbooks on practical • updated National Vegetation Fax: 01302 310167. conservation, this book is an Classification tables; indispensable reference for • up to date contacts. BTCV is the UK’s largest practical conservation charity. It anybody involved in practical helps over 130,000 volunteers every year take hands-on woodland management. This revision of Woodlands is action to improve both the rural and urban environment. This enlarged and newly particularly significant in Activities include regular conservation tasks, UK and illustrated edition includes view of the current renewed International Conservation Holidays and Millennium important new sections on the interest in woodland Volunteer projects for 16-24 year olds. BTCV’s community following: management and ancient network provides groups with access to local support, coppices. newsletters, grants, specialist advice and publications. Tel: • management of woodland 01491 821600. E-mail: [email protected] Web: habitats; www.btcv.org

Handbook of Postharvest Technology – Cereals, Fruits,Vegetables,Tea and Spices

Edited by:Amlendu preservation techniques to sources and, in some case, the mould, disease and Charkraverty,Arun S maintain quality and decrease documentation is daunting with deterioration during food Mujumdar, G S Vijaya spoilage and withering during up to 400 references. storage....prevent temperature Raghavan and Hosahalli postharvest storage, processing Undoubtedly, there is easy variations, water loss, bruising S Ramaswamy and distribution. access to a wealth of further and contamination during fruit Price: US$195 With almost 900 pages of data (both classical and current) and vegetable Publisher: Marcel well-indexed information, it is a from over 1700 publications for transportation....and grade, Dekker Inc, New York comprehensive text by some 50 those seeking specific classify and evaluate fruits and ISBN: 0-8247-0514-9 expert contributors.The clarification and the tenacity to vegetables.The text also chapters are grouped into pursue it. includes the conversion of From processing, handling, appropriate processing sections The Handbook of Postharvest biomass resources into food, drying and milling to storage, and edited by internationally Technology outlines useful feed, chemicals, energy and packaging and distribution, this respected reseachers whose programmes to design the best other value-added reference text presents the names regularly appear as handling, aeration and storage products....the components and latest methods in the authors of peer reviewed equipment....sustain optimal function of harvesting and manufacture and supply of articles in leading international atmospheric composition, drying machines and grains, fruits, vegetables and research journals such as temperature and humidity in systems....and volatile spices – detailing the Biosystems Engineering storage facilities....select the monitoring for early disease physiology, structure and (formerly, the Journal of most appropriate packaging and detection. composition and characteristics Agricultural Engineering preservation procedures for The introductory of agricultural products, as well Research). Each chapter extended shelf-life....reduce the information on physiology of as recent cooling and contains cited information occurrence of pests, insects, the various agricultural

22 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 HOTICULTURE commodities is very relevant and places the subsequent storage criteria and processing procedures into context.The Peat substitute makes processing operations are treated in sequence to provide mushroom production staple dry goods with a long shelf-life, as well as the more eco-friendly handling requirements for perishables to minimise damage and maintain quality in he rapid depletion of the production. The lack of a viable peat the cool chain distribution world’s peat resources could be alternative in mushroom casing network. Effective utilisation of Tsignificantly reduced thanks to a consequently threatened the continuing the byproducts is also new substitute product developed by production of mushrooms at Hanbury considered and is essential, not scientists at Horticulture Research Hall. With the co-operation of Neil just to meet environmental International (HRI). Cook, the gardens’ manager, trials pressures on recycling, but also The UK commercial horticulture commenced during the summer of to avoid being overwhelmed by industry is a major user of peat, 2002. As a result, HRI scientists the waste stream from any sourced primarily from Ireland, Britain established that a mix of 70% bark fines processing operation. and Germany. Each year, about 250,000 and 30% coal tailings produced There is a large pool of m3 of peat are used for growing mushrooms that, in terms of their yield data contained in some 200 mushrooms. However, faced with and quality, were indistinguishable from tables and the text is increasing public and environmental those grown in peat-based casing on a extensively illustrated with pressure against the destruction of small-scale. The success of HRI’s work over 350 images. It is boglands for peat extraction, the means that the world’s oldest disappointing, however, to find Department for Environment, Food and mushroom house is able to continue the graphics of such variable Rural Affairs (Defra) and the growing mushrooms under the quality with pixellated mushroom industry, through the National Trust’s peat-free policy, at a photographs and fuzzy Horticultural Development Council cost slightly higher than using peat. diagrams, although this is a (HDC), have provided £350,000 of Work led by Ralph Noble at HRI is presentational irritant rather funding to research alternatives. progressing to find peat reduced casing than an obstruction to The HRI study that started in 1997 blends that are suitable for large-scale understanding.There is also has resulted in the discovery of two commercial mushroom production. inadequate attention to suitable products, composted bark fines English Casing Blenders Ltd is supplying consistency of units of and fine particle tailings (a by-product a ‘reduced peat’ casing material to measurement, leaving the that creates a major, and costly, disposal commercial mushroom growers. With reader to complete the problem for the coal industry). This 30% of the peat substituted with fine conversions and detracting clay-like material replaces the black particle coal tailings, the product is from easy assimilation of peat fraction used in mushroom casing producing good mushroom yields and valuable material collated in and also reduces the need to add lime quality, and benefits the environment. this hardback reference to the mix. The use of fine particle manual. Rather surprisingly, tailings as a peat substitute has now MORE INFORMATION there is little evidence of been extensively trialled and patented recent advances in bioprocess by HRI. Sarah Cook, Communications engineering such as imaging To prove its effectiveness, an 18- Manager, HRI Wellesbourne, technology and pulse electric month trial has been conducted in Wellesbourne, Warwickshire, CV35 field processing, but perhaps conjunction with the National Trust’s 9EF. Tel: 01789 472027. Fax: these techniques were Hanbury Hall in Worcestershire. These 01789 472043. E-mail: considered to be at an early gardens contain the oldest mushroom [email protected] stage of commercial adoption house in the world remaining in and even comprehensive production. Built in 1860, it still uses manuals must stop the original slate shelves for growing somewhere! Overall, the beds of mushrooms. handbook will be a valuable With the National Trust adopting a reference resource on any peat-free policy by the end of 2002, the library shelf. production of plants in all its gardens BDW had already been successfully transferred to peat-free growing media, the exception to date being mushroom

23 PRODUCTS

HARVESTING Silver Medal for CR stone detection system

New Holland’s outstanding CR and have designed the different system can be adjusted from the two models designed for large range of rotary combines has systems currently available in the cab. scale operations, the CR960 and won a silver medal ‘Palmares de market but these all have “Customers buy the CR CR980, with different rotor sizes l’Innovation SIMA 2003’, for its limitations. They are mechanical combine for its unparalleled ensuring that customers have highly innovative ‘ASD:Advanced systems, requiring operator’s capacity, and this unique system the right combine to match the Stone Detection’ system at the intervention to empty the stone ensures the combine achieves specific size of their operation. Paris International Agri-Business trap when servicing the machine. the highest levels of productivity “The Advanced Stone Show. They also negatively affect with minimum operator Detection system is a typical The innovative ASD productivity, as a beater is intervention, while remaining example of the ground-breaking overcomes the limitations of generally positioned in front of fully protected. It has clear products that we cultivate,” says existing systems with a the threshing system, disrupting advantages over the Mr Adam. “By listening to our sophisticated solution that feeding. competition,” says Franck Adam, customers we can develop more actively protects the machine New Holland’s intelligent product marketing specialist for advanced machines with greater and its inherent capability. Advanced Stone Detection New Holland’s Western Europe productivity and capacity.” Capacity is the cornerstone system, on the other hand, region. The SIMA show is a biennial of rotary combine performance, actively searches for stones. A At the heart of the CR’s exhibition held by SYGMA, the and is exemplified in the CR closed drum at the entrance of performance are two French Association of Tractor range. The CR combines are the feeder directs the flow of longitudinal mounted rotors that and Agricultural Machinery designed to cover many acres crop along the bottom of the replace conventional threshing Manufacturers and SECIMA, the with ease, with efficient grain elevator. Using sophisticated and separation elements. This French Association of separation ensured by electronics and acoustic sensors, purely rotary concept, results in International Machinery Business unimpeded feeding, which keeps the system analyses the sounds a capacity increase of 20% more Concerns, at the Paris-Nord the rotors supplied with plenty of crop flowing into the elevator than New Holland’s previous Villepinte Exhibition Centre from of crop. for the concussion of stones. flagship model, the TF78. 23rd to 27th February 2003. This direct feed, is the key to Upon detection, the New The CR combine, with its performance in rotary combines Holland ASD system progressive technology, is the CONTACT but can also bring with it the automatically opens a trap door result of collaboration between danger of stones damaging the beneath the straw elevator and CNH’s centre of excellence for John Hewett, UK combine’s internal mechanisms. triggers a deflector plate to eject harvesting equipment at Communications Manager, That is why an efficient system is the stone. Once the foreign Zedelgem in Belgium and the CNH. Tel: +44 (0)1268 vital to ensure stones do not object has been ejected, the advanced research and 292183 E-mail: reach the heart of the machine. operator raises the header to development centre at New [email protected] Manufacturers have carried out reset the system and continues Holland, Pennsylvania. This Website: www.cnh.com many studies to find a solution harvesting. The sensitivity of the rotary combine range comprises

COMPUTERS

Sokkia Ltd are pleased to announce that their Some of the improvements made include New upgraded latest version of Mapsuite+ version 2.0 divide lines into segments, more languages, software is now available. Mapsuite+ is improved plotting options, conversion of mapsuite+ available in foundation, survey, earthworks Autocad symbols to Mapsuite+ points and design and version 2.0 brings more including height, volume calculation from software improvements to serve the end users. cross sections and improved communications.

CONTACT

For further information contact: Rachel Scallan, Marketing Supervisor, Sokkia Ltd, Datum House, Electra Way, Crewe Business Park, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6ZT. Tel: +44 (0)1270 250511 Fax: +44 (0)1270 250533 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.mapsuiteplus.co.uk

24 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 PRODUCT SELECTION Bosch Motors and Controls goes online

Bosch Motors and Controls, the up to 1.7kW, water pumps and rotational speed, acceleration, Bosch motors, sensors and Company’s division for non- radial and axial fans. There are pressure, temperature and relays have been used in hospital automotive engineering also additional functions such as Lambda oxygen sensors, plus air- equipment, automatic doors and products, has launched a website gearboxes, Hall generators, and mass meters, knock sensors and blinds, agricultural equipment, at potentiometers, plus technical steering sensors with CAN-Bus water pumping, heating, www.boschmotorsandcontrols.c specifications including types of interface. Full technical details ventilating and air conditioning o.uk, with three sections duty and degrees of protection. including drawings are included. (HVAC) systems and conveyor covering direct current (DC) The ‘Relays’ section contains David Anderson, head of systems, plus industrial drives. electric motors, sensors and catalogues outlining the range of Bosch Motors and Controls said: relays. 12 and 24 V relays, mini-relays “Each product in our Motors & MORE INFORMATION A broad selection of and micro-relays, plus pushing Controls portfolio has been For more information products, technical data, and pulling electromagnets, manufactured to Bosch’s contact: Robert Bosch Ltd, applications, diagrams and socket housings, connectors and renowned high standards. There P.O. Box 98, Uxbridge, illustrations can be accessed on- other accessories. Explanatory is a high degree of versatility in Middlesex, UB9 5HJ. Tel: screen, while Adobe Acrobat notes on parameters, operating the range for machine builders +44 (0)1895 834466 Fax: PDF catalogues can be printed modes and degrees of and design engineers and this +44 (0)1895 838548 E- or downloaded to a local drive. protection are included. new web facility makes their mail: [email protected] The ‘Electric Motors’ section The ‘Sensors’ section covers research process quicker and Website: www.bosch.co.uk covers 12 and 24 V DC motors angular-position, yaw-rate, easier.”

TRACTORS Purpose designed Lynx front linkage for challenger MT700 series In line with its position as a key system. This increases tractor linkage can be fitted with is a rapidly growing specialist supplier of premium quality front stability when transporting a electronic position resume (EPR). agricultural company working linkages for most popular makes heavy front load, with the This is connected to the tractor with farmers throughout the UK. and model of tractor, Lynx additional benefits of improved hydraulic system and does not It offers front linkages to fit all Engineering has further expanded operator comfort and reduced require a spool valve. This tractors front pto facilities. It also its comprehensive range with the shock loads passing through the enables the transport and offers an extensive range of introduction of a purpose tractor. The Challenger linkage working position of the linkage to presses and tyre type packers for designed system to fit Challenger also includes the Lynx multi-valve be adjusted quickly and easily and use in front or rear of tractors MT700 tracked tractors. system. This enables the lift rams also allows the linkage to be and in conjunction with other The Challenger M1700 series to be operated in either single or returned to pre-set positions in a implements. Lynx is also an front linkage has a 3.5 tonne double acting mode, the latter similar way to electronic rear importer for the Stoll range of capacity and was originally enabling weight to be transferred linkage control systems. front loaders. Working from a developed in co-operation with to front mounted kit if necessary. A future development new industrial unit near Rugby it Caterpillar in America. A key A full float position is also planned for the linkage will be to supplies equipment through a UK feature of the unit is its short included. enable it to integrate into the distributor network. fitting time, the support brackets As an option, the MT700 MT700 tractor’s ISOBUS 11783 having been designed implement to closely match the communication MORE INFORMATION chassis folds of the system. This will For more information tractor. This reduces enable the linkage to contact: Nick Ewbank, Lynx the need for spacers be plugged directly Engineering, Wharf Works, and additional brackets, into the tractor’s Long Buckby, Northampton, and ensures the unit is electronics and do England, NN6 7PP. Tel: +44 particularly resilient to away with the need (0)1327 843215 Fax: +44 torsional loads. for a separate EPR (0)1327 844341 E-mail: The Challenger system. The price for [email protected] linkage incorporates the this will start from Website: www.lynx- proven Zuidberg gas £3800. engineering.co.uk accumulator suspension Lynx Engineering

25 PRODUCTS

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE Notcutts environmental policy enhanced by electric utility vehicles

otcutts, the family looked at numerous options provide a more comfortable handover of the vehicles, Nick owned firm of garden when we decided to replace ride, resulting in less fatigue at Brown, Utility Vehicles Sales Ncentres and nurseries our ageing fleet of compact the end of a working day. Also Manager at Ransomes Jacobsen based at Woodbridge near tractors that were being used they are providing 7 - 8 hours said, Ipswich, has taken delivery of as tugs at our various sites. The of productive work between “To the best of my knowledge, 15 E-Z-GO Workhorse utility electric powered E-Z-GO recharging periods and have Notcutts is the first large scale vehicles from Ransomes Workhorse proved by far to be been working for over 10 nursery operation in the UK to Jacobsen Ltd. the best option and we hours during peak demand in take the electric power route. The primary function of purchased two initially, to assess late spring and early summer. They are seeing rewards that the electric powered their potential over a full 12 “We have an directly affect their bottom line and I’m sure that there would be similar benefits to many other producers, large or small, if they were to look at alternative power. At Ransomes Jacobsen we have a ‘Workhorse’ range utilising electric power or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that are ideal for use in horticultural applications.” Paul Master concluded,“At Notcutts we provide a customer-oriented service, be it direct to the public through our own outlets or to third parties as a supplier of quality shrubs and plants. Customer service and support that we have received from Bartram Mowers, Ransomes Jacobsen’s local dealer, has been superb. They have provided excellent guidance and back up during workhorses will be as tugs, months. We were so environmental policy here at the evaluation process and pulling trailers loaded with impressed with their Notcutts which ensures that all have carried that through plants, shrubs and trees around performance that we decided areas of the company during the delivery of the the nursery grounds, as well as to phase out our tractors and proactively minimise their effect fleet.” being used for general replace them with E-Z-GO on the environment through maintenance duties. Ten Workhorses. best practice. This MORE INFORMATION workhorses have been put into “The reasoning behind the commitment has been followed use at the company’s Pettistree change is simple. In pure through with the purchase of Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd, nursery on the outskirts of economic terms they are far the Workhorses, which are Central Avenue, Ransomes Woodbridge, while the other 5 more cost-effective than the extremely kind to the Europark, Ipswich, Suffolk, will be employed at their tractors, but that was not the environment, creating no IP3 9QG Tel:+44 (0)1473 Waterers nursery at Bagshot in only consideration. From our emissions, unlike the diesel 270000 Website: Surrey. staff’s viewpoint they are fumes emitted by their www.ransomesjacobsen. Production Director, Paul quieter, easier to operate, predecessors.” com Masters commented,“We highly manoeuvrable and Commenting at the recent

26 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 CULTIVATORS New cultivator development gives precise depth control

A specially designed front roller versions. One incorporates a cultivation. CONTACT which provides very precise series of straight discs which cut The rollers can be fitted to For more information con- depth control for soil-working trash in front of the tines, and all Knight’s Triple-Press machines, tact: Knight Farm Machinery tools is the latest development the other has wavy discs which which are available from 2.8 to 8 Ltd, Wireless Hill, South on Knight Farm Machinery’s give an additional surface m wide. Luffenham, Oakham, Triple-Press cultivators. Rutland, LE15 8NF. Tel: +44 The roller ensures that tines (0)1780 722200 Fax: +44 do not pull themselves into the (0)1780 722201 Website: soil as they move through the www.knight-ltd.co.uk ground but maintain a consistent depth at all times, even over ridges. When a good weed seed chit is required, for example for blackgrass control in stale seedbeds, consistent shallow cultivations can be achieved across virtually any terrain. Due to the lower power demand with the roller fitted, the machinery can be used with Knight’s Farm Machinery’s Triple-Press smaller tractors. has new specially The roller, which is designed front roller providing precise depth adjustable, is available in two control

INNOVATIVE TOOLS Driving in the dark?

Have you ever been miles from and tighten a fixing in a dark set solves all those problems and MORE INFORMATION mains lighting with the bonnet recess - like a drawer runner in a more in just one tool! up juggling with a screwdriver, a cabinet - then drop a screw just Equipped with two powerful For more information on torch and a loose component all where you can’t reach? LED lamps, 7 assorted bits the Flashlight Screwdriver at the same time? Had to find The Agriemach screwdriver (stored handily round the shaft), (product code PM097999) a magnetic probe that extends or any of Agriemach’s Innovative screwdriver to 365 mm and a chunky non extensive range of products with spare bits stored slip handle that gives excellent contact: Agriemach Ltd, around the shaft, integral light and torque, it’s the answer to your ‘Wayfarers’, Domewood, magnetic lance (PM prayers. Powered by two M3 Copthorne, Crawley, West 097990); available from Agriemach batteries, this screwdriver should Sussex, RH10 3HD. Tel: +44 be in the tool kit of every (0)1342 713743 Fax: +44 motorist, plumber, carpenter, (0)1342 719181 E-mail: agricultural engineer, electrician [email protected] and DIY enthusiast. Website: Sold at £8.50 + vat (£9.99 www.agriemach.com inclusive) it is available direct from Agriemach or from select- ed stockists. This is just one of the com- prehensive Agriemach range of screwdrivers, specialised tools and equipment.

27 PRODUCTS

LUBRICANTS New BP range prolongs working life for farmers

P has launched a new and lubricate more effectively. In range of agricultural turn, this reduces the amount of Blubricants that will help wear in the engine, allowing it to farmers reduce costs by work to maximum prolonging the working life of recommended oil drain intervals their machinery. New super which saves the farmer money by tractor oil universal (STOU) prolonging the life of the products which have been equipment and helping to specifically designed to disperse maximise the resale value. soot better than anything before The comprehensive range of lead the BP terrac line-up. Soot BP terrac lubricants also includes is a natural part of the engine, transmission and hydraulic combustion process in an engine oils. With products that are and is made up of carbon corrosion resistant, the line-up particles and contaminants. offers improved durability These can build up into clumps particularly in harsh conditions, which clog the engine causing and delivers easier start up in severe problems if not tackled. extreme weather. The packs in Tougher EU emissions the terrac range have also been legislation has also led colour coded to represent each manufacturers to redesign usage, allowing farmers to see at engines to operate at lower a glance which products are combustion temperatures in an required for each application. effort to reduce the emissions of The European launch of the NOx gases. The lower new range follows market temperatures at which the fuel research with the agricultural burns leads to even more soot, industry across Europe to most of which ends up in the oil. establish what farmers look for If this build up of soot is not and need from their lubricants. In handled properly, it increases addition to lower maintenance wear on the engine, ultimately costs, extra protection and With conventional oil, large soot particles increase engine wear, which can shorten the working life of your machinery (top); BP’s reducing the life of equipment increased efficiency, the BP terrac unique formulation stops soot particles forming clumps to keep and leading to problems of longer range helps farmers protect the the oil flowing freely and the engine cleaner for longer (bottom) downtime and higher environment by better control of maintenance costs. soot. product with exceptional soot all diesel and petrol engines “With a one third reduction “Our new range delivers a control to give high in engine wear this new product simplified line up that will protect performance ‘all round’ • Transmission oils saves farmers both time and machines better, help them work lubricant for engines, - terrac super transmission money by cutting the damage harder and keep them running transmissions, wet brakes and Multifunctional tractor and reducing the downtime longer than anything else on the front axles; transmission and hydraulic caused by soot build-up,” explains market,” adds Bahon,“plus of - terrac universal 15W-30 fluid offering exceptional Virginie Bahon, BP’s UK course, you get the commitment Specially designed to lubricate protection Commercial Lubricants Marketing and concern for minimising and protect a wide range of - terrac super transmission Advisor. “The new oil environmental impact that people engines, transmissions, S dramatically reduces the have come to expect from BP.” hydraulics and final drives, A multifunctional transmission formation of soot into the huge including oil immersed wet oil that prevents irritating and clumps which can clog the engine The full line-up includes: brakes. potentially damaging ‘squawk’ quicker.” It is the unique formulation of • Super Tractor Universal • Engine oils • Hydraulic oils BP terrac’s STOU that stops soot Oils - terrac super motor 15W- - terrac super hydraulic particles forming clumps; this - terrac super universal 30 Premium multifunction reduces the thickening of the oil 10W-30 An excellent quality 15W-40 hydraulic fluid using the most and allows it to flow more freely An outstanding market leading lubricant designed for virtually advanced technology.

28 LANDWARDS LATE SPRING 2003 CROP SPRATERS New team sprayer for in-furrow Amistar application

he UK’s leading been increased to four bar innovative specialist (effectively minimising the risk Tsprayer manufacturer, of nozzle blocks) and four Team Sprayers, has developed filtration units have been built the first purpose-built in to the system. Furthermore, equipment to apply the a warning light and buzzer are fungicide Amistar in-furrow fitted in the cab, to alert during potato planting. For the operators to any blockage.” first time this year, potato Units are supplied with a growers will be able to use 90-litre tank to mount on the Amistar to control soil-borne planter as standard, sufficient ‘Black Dot’, with potential to plant two hectares. Two- benefits for crop yield and row planter units cost £1585, quality. with larger versions for three, Cambridge University four and six row planters Farms have obtained the available. Team Sprayers specific off label approval equipment is available from (SOLA) on potatoes, for selected machinery Amistar. It permits the distributors across the UK, application of six litres of the which also provide the full broadspectrum strobilurin back up and service for the fungicide, per hectare by equipment. conventional sprayer, across Amistar is the only the soil surface. In addition it fungicide available to growers permits its incorporation into for the control of soil-borne soil, or three litres per hectare ‘Black Dot’ in potatoes. The applied directly into the furrow disease was the major scourge as the seed potato is planted. of last year’s crop, exacerbated Team Sprayers Technical by wet conditions and Sales Manager, Mick particularly in the more Gathercole, reports on-farm susceptible varieties. trials last year, with an in- “Growers have the Monitoring over recent furrow sprayer mounted opportunity to make seasons has identified the directly on the planter, disease in three-quarters of all demonstrated the precision in- significant cost savings, crops, with infected tubers in furrow application worked over 40% of ware samples. equally as effectively as the far The innovative solution hectare, is claimed to provide higher overall rate. developed by Team Sprayers, the optimum treated soil mix CONTACT “Growers have the to achieve even and thorough around the seed. opportunity to make significant coverage of the soil Specially engineered For more information or cost savings, use half the surrounding the seed tuber, nozzles have been designed order of team sprayers amount of fungicide on the incorporates a twin-line and manufactured to operate contact: Mick Gathercole, crop, and still achieve the application system. An initial reliably and consistently at Team Sprayers, Unwins potential yield and quality nozzle is mounted on the higher pressures. “Spraying Industrial Estate, Ely, benefits,” he adds. Mr furrow opener, to spray the direct into the furrow, with Cambridgeshire, CB7 4QT. Gathercole calculates the cost soil as it is split, whilst a second nozzles mounted close to the Tel: +44 (0)1353 661211 of a two furrow applicator will nozzle sprays the soil as it is moving soil, is an incredibly Fax: +44 (0)1353 666642 be recouped after around 20 closed over the planted seed hostile environment for any E-mail: sales@team- hectares of treatment through tuber. This combination, spray application,” highlights Mr sprayers.com Website: spray cost savings alone. applying 50 litres of spray per Gathercole. “The pressure has www.team-sprayers.com

29 Horticulture The professional institution of choice for engineers, managers, scientists, technologists, environmentalists and students in the land based sector offers five grades of membership from Associate (including students) to Fellow. Non-corporate grades accommodate non-engineers and companies; you do not need to be an engineer to enjoy IAgrE membership

BENEFITS of MEMBERSHIP Environment Professional Registration Recognition of professional status as Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Engineering Technician (EngTech);and shortly as Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv)

Professional Contacts Networking opportunities with almost 2000 members worldwide by access to the Membership Directory

Publications Personal copy of the bimonthly IAgrE Journal, Landwards, with technical articles, information alerts, products, and news of members

Career Planning Continuing Professional Development through Conferences, Branch meetings nationwide, Specialist Group events and Young Engineers programme Agriculture Specialist Fields • Food Engineering and Technology • Precision in Farming • Vehicles and Machinery Management • Forestry Engineering • Horticultural Engineering • Renewable Energy • Soil and Water Management • Amenity and Ecological Engineering • Pioneering Technology • Overseas/International Development • Livestock Engineering

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Tel:+44 (0)1525 861096 Forestry Fax: +44 (0)1525 861660 E-mail: [email protected] www.iagre.org