February 2018 58

The corporate journal of EkoNiva Group Agriculture is a whole world in itself with its own philosophy

Surprisingly, these words were said by a young girl who is just starting her career path in agriculture. It is hard to believe that only a few years ago farming was viewed as an outdated industry, a dead-end sector of the economy. To learn about the current vision for agriculture among those who have given their lives to its development or who are managing large agricultural holdings? See 3, 20, 21.

The reliable and versatile Crop of the future John Deere1890 Lentils have taken their rightful never lets farmers down place in the market. How First-hand information on machine to grow this crop, read at quality. Page 12 Page 16 2 Contents Contents

News !Hot topic Seed growing

Russians are in Berlin again Organic farming – level up Rich crop guaranteed After a two-year break the Russian booth Government of the Russian Federation Top performance of EkoNiva’s is back at International Green Week....…4 has approved the Organic Production seeds...... 19 bill...... 11 We are expanding our boundaries! EkoNiva has started its operation in Ryazan…...... 4 Technical inspection Historic landmark Our specialists Milk production at EkoNiva dairies has A versatile seeding tool! Rich experience reached 1,200 tonnes per day…...... 5 John Deere has introduced the 1890 air has been gained by students during Keeping pace with the times! seed drill for no-till...... 12 EkoNiva internship. Young specialists EkoNivaTekhnika-Holding launches an Top-selling products strive to take internship at EkoNiva What makes John Deere and JCB online customer support system...... 5 dairies...... 20 attractive for clients?...... 13 Earth achievements and Haybuster shares experience cosmic plans Specialists of EkoNiva-Tekhnika have held EkoNivaAgro has put a new dairy into a demo show of Haybuster operation...... 6 machinery...... 14 Our people Farm’s secret Customers of EkoNiva-Tekhnika on a tour ‘My destiny is in my village’ of a new dairy in Kaluga oblast.....…...... 7 Vladimir Frolov, a peasant by birth, First-hand experience speaks about his work and life...... 21 Heavenly curds Products of the Academy of Dairy Crop of the future Let’s go skiing! Sciences have passed a quality test...... 7 Lentil production is expanding all over Enthusiasts of EkoNivaAgro have taken Russia. Professional advice from Willi part in a ski race...... 22 Bridging the future Drews, PhD in Agronomy...... 16 EkoNiva is housing the winter session of the agrcultural student troop MOST...... 9 Efficient fodder Our Academy preparation Livestock farming A warm welcome at farming enterprises of Cows don’t lie! Jackets for Siberian calves! Vladimir oblast...... 9 American veterinarian David Reid has A young designer from Novosibirsk A trend-setting event held a workshop for his Russian oblast saves calves AgroFarm Trade Show — a trendsetter...10 colleagues...... 18 from frost...... 23

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№ 58 February 2018 From the first person

A rollercoaster ride: shall we expect a rise after a sharp drop?

he dairy industry seems to be to sell products containing vegetable fat I can see considerable potential in experiencing a rollercoaster ride. under the names of ‘cheese product’ or organic production in terms of both TThe increase in milk prices in the ‘sour cream product’. Why cannot we do export to the EU and domestic market previous year was followed by a dramatic the same in Russia? It would stabilise development. Russian consumers drop. It is remarkable that the prices milk prices and enhance sustainable have become more conscious of what have decreased in winter, when milk development of the dairy industry. they eat. However, the organic market production volumes are traditionally Currently, we are fighting a losing battle is still fairly small, and it is not easy to lower and the price is higher than in against palm oil and other butter fat find true organic meat, fruit of dairy summer. The purchase price of raw milk replacers. This battle can never be won by products on shop shelves. However, is decreasing against a rise in the market conscientious dairy producers! Thus, we Russian farmers, unlike their European price of dairy products and the overall feel as if we were having a rollercoaster colleagues, possess the main resource undersupply of milk in Russia. ride: rushing downwards holding our required for organic production — land. This situation has been caused by breaths and fearing to think what will The development of new production adulterated dairy commodities and so- happen in summer. practices will help agricultural producers called ‘cheese products’, ‘sour cream Our colleagues from the grain industry are to reduce their risks and compensate for products’, etc., which compromise the also going through tough times: the low the market price decrease so that they dairy industry with their very name. grain prices caused by the record crop could move forward instead of riding up and down a rollercoaster. р. 23 Since 15th January, dairy product yield in 2017 are unlikely to rise, unless Stefan Duerr, manufacturers in Belarus are forbidden the ruble rate decreases. president of EkoNiva Group

№ 58 February 2018 4 News After a two-year break Russia is back to the largest agricultural trade fair in Berlin. Around 20 companies from 15 regions have presented achievements of the Russian agriculture at Green Week. Russia is in Berlin again. At International Green Week The Russian delegation headed by supply. Despite political challenges, the of German Federation of Rural Youth. He Evgeniy Gromyko, Deputy Minister deputy minister believes that Russia and shared experience with the beginning of Agriculture of Russia, familiarized Germany have more common ground than colleagues, elaborated on the specifics of themselves with the displays and took differences. Among promising avenues of doing business in Russia. The presentation part in the business program. cooperation between the two countries, was followed by an hour-long Q&A session. The German-Russian Forum focused he mentioned farming machinery, plant As a word of encouragement, Stefan on capabilities of the two countries in breeding, seed production, and genetics. Duerr urged the young farmers to be ensuring global food safety. The event Speaking about agri-business in Russia, guided by sound judgement, to be was attended by representatives of Stefan Duerr, President of EkoNiva Group, responsible for the decisions they take the ministries of agriculture of Russia pointed out the fact that good framework and to be daring in pursuing their dreams. and Germany, German Committee on conditions for work had been created in Mr Duerr also shared how he manages to Eastern European Economic Relations, Russia. And in case someone is considering combine work and family life. German-Russian Agricultural and Political working in Russia, now is the time to start Dialogue, and businessmen. while vacant land is still available. Another ‘Unfortunately, most of the time, I am away. I spend only two days a week Evgeniy Gromyko spoke about the point that Stefan Duerr made was that there had been a shift in public opinion with my family’, says Stefan Duerr. ‘But results of work of the Russian farming when I am at home, the entire family sector. An impressive harvest — 140 in how agricultural sector, overall, and farmers, in particular, are viewed. gets together in the evening, we turn the million tonnes of grain — was reaped phones off and talk to each other. And last year, thus solving the issue of food ‘My daughter used to be embarrassed to then it doesn’t matter, even if a governor safety in 10 types of products. admit that her dad was a farmer. Now she calls — the time is reserved exclusively ‘If in 2001 Russia was the largest is proud of my work.’ for the family.’ importer, then in 2017 export of farming The Russian farmer with German roots Wrapping the session up, Stefan Duerr products reached 20 million dollars. The also the gave a long-term outlook of the invited the young farmers to EkoNiva for a trend is going to continue.’ dairy industry. He believes that in five to visit, an internship or work. six years Russia is going to overproduce, According to Mr. Gromyko, production ‘We are glad to share experience and of biological products has good market so it is important to take action now and explore export markets. keen to recruit skilled specialists’, opportunities, since the demand in the summed up the businessman. global market is growing faster than the Stefan Duerr also took part in the congress By Svetlana WEBER We are expanding our boundaries EkoNiva has purchased OkaAgro, an agricultural holding in Ryazan oblast with a modern infrastructure and good prospects.

he large agricultural area and region, a 50,000-tonne storage facility President of EkoNiva Group. ‘Provided that modern dairy farms of OkaAgro with railcar loading, 5,500 head of cattle, state support continues, EkoNiva plans to Timpressed EkoNiva, which was including 2,800 cows of Holstein breed, build four dairies with a capacity of 2,800 invited to enter the region by Nikolay which produce 80 tonnes of milk per head each within the next few years.’ Lyubimov, Governor, who used to work in day. The company also engages in cereal Construction of the first of the four close cooperation with the company in and forage production. 2,800- head dairies in Pitelino will his previous position in Kaluga oblast. ‘It is a good asset, where all the conditions begin already this spring, which proves Today, OkaAgro has 49,000 ha of land, for the development of dairy production the company’s intention to stick to its five divisions in four districts of Ryazan have been created’, says Stefan Duerr, commitment. by Victor BARGOTIN № 58 February 2018 Milking News 5 1,200 tonnes am very grateful to him. We have been working hard all these per day twelve years: building new dairies, implementing new technologies, training specialists. We have gone through challenging times since we had to start from scratch. The economic situation has not always been favourable for dairy business development. However, the governmental support had played an important role in the rapid development of production, especially in the recent years. Our first dairies were built with the support of Sberbank. The intensive growth of the past few years has become possible due to EkoNiva completed the year 2017 with the partnership with Rosselkhozbank which helped us to build 10 dairies. It impressive results: on 26th December the is hard to overestimate the contribution of EkoNiva’s employees which have amount of daily milk yield reached 1,000 become a close-knit team of high-class tonnes per day. Achieving the largest professionals within these years. Within these twelve years, EkoNiva has production volume in Russia was a historic built 15 dairies and we are not going to rest on our laurels. Four new dairies are event for the company. already underway. The construction of another four dairies will start this year. ver 500 tonnes of milk is work’, says Stefan Duerr, President of By the beginning of March, the daily produced at the farming EkoNiva Group. ‘We engaged in dairy milk yield in EkoNiva will have reached Ooperations of Voronezh oblast, 250 production in 2006. Frankly speaking, it 1,200 tonnes. According to Stefan Duerr, tonnes is produced in Kaluga and the rest was not entirely our choice: the decision by the end of 2019, the company will — in Novosibirsk, Tyumen and Kursk. was prompted by Viktor Shevtsov, Head have passed the 2,000 tonnes mark. of Liski district (Voronezh oblast), and I ‘It is the result of intensive long-term By Svetlana WEBER Keeping pace with the times! EkoNivaTekhnika-Holding is have access to the goods list and receive professional help 24 hours per day 7 days a week. launching a new project — online ‘To find the required item, the customer can type in the article number or the name of the good needed’, continues Vladimir order system for clients. Kovalenko. The new system allows selecting consumables for ow one does not have to spend a lot of time to order John Deere self-propelled machines. Clients also can choose the spare parts, lubricants and consumables. All orders can required size of tyres and order them in one click.’ Nbe made by loading the goods into a virtual shopping Each user will have his own account featuring the history of all basket in a special internet application. orders placed. This will save the precious time of businessmen The online order system has been developed to optimise which value every second. The new internet service will be customer support. It allows the clients to get a prompt review launched in the nearest time. EkoNivaTekhnika Holding of all goods and services on offer and learn about discounts specialists are sure that their clients will appreciate the non- and special offers. stop service. To stay on top of the business one needs to keep pace with the times! ‘The project has been developed specially for our clients. By Darya DENISOVA It is a new step towards successful cooperation’, says Vladimir Kovalenko, Spare Parts Division Manager of EkoNivaTekhnika-Holding. ‘We have done our best to make it easier for our clients to come in contact with us without any routine emails or fax copies. Now all they have to do is file an application in the Internet, and the operator will call the client within a few minutes after the application is filed. The user- friendly interface of the site makes it easy to use for anyone. The high-quality picture of the item and detailed description will help the customer to make the right choice. The new system allows to track the order status and the shipment and delivery dates. It is also important that the customer can

№ 58 February 2018 6 News

fines in the amount of 3% of the company’s total turnover. Besides, the guests discussed the continuous quality control system for dairy products — from farm to shop shelf. The company has invested nearly 2.5 billion rubles in the facility construction. The layout comprises 3 barns, a feed centre with the capacity of 50 thousand tonnes and pens and exercise lots for heifers aged from 3 to 8 months. ‘This unique facility is designed for 2,800 milking cows and fitted with a cutting-edge 72-stall rotary milking parlour’, says Aleksandr Rybenko, Earth achievments Executive Director of EkoNivaAgro. ‘Over 95 people are employed here at the and cosmic plans moment, the enterprise features shower rooms, changing rooms, a canteen and other conveniences. Likewise, we do EkoNivaAgro has launched a new modern our best to ensure the most comfortable dairy facility for 2,800 head of milking cows in and pleasing cow life on the farm. So far, the dairy houses 1,350 Holstein Bobrov district, Voronezh oblast. cows, 30 % of which have been raised by EkoNivaAgro. One cow at the enterprise leksey Gordeyev, Presidential button which launched both the dairy produces 26 litres of milk a day. Plenipotentiary Envoy to the and Marta to conquer the space Currently, the total milk output of the ACentral Federal District, Stefan and promote high-quality milk in our dairy is 35 tonnes a day. When working Duerr, Director General of EkoNiva-APK boundless universe. at full capacity, the production will reach Holding, and Aleksandr Gusev, Acting The event guests tasted the dairy 80 tonnes a day. Governor of Voronezh region, took part products from the Academy of Dairy ‘EkoNivaAgro’s plans are very ambitious’, in the opening ceremony. Sciences and truly admired their continues Aleksandr Rybenko. ‘We are ‘Agriculture and livestock farming, in the natural flavour. In the course of opening another dairy for 2,800 head in first place, make the basis for the rural discussion, Stefan Duerr pointed out Korshevo, Bobrov district, in May, and economy’, states Aleksey Gordeyev. ‘Only that dairy product adulteration had starting the construction of two facilities well-balanced sustainable development become a normal thing for a lot of in Bobrov district and one facility in Liski of both urban and rural territories can producers. Supporting the concern, district. The work is in full swing and we ensure good prospects for Voronezh Aleksey Gordeyev suggested employing have grandiose plans for the future.’ oblast. Young specialists will be willing European experience involving high By Viktor BARGOTIN to move to provincial areas if employers offer favourable working conditions as EkoNiva does, which will solve the overall demographic issue.’ The ceremony became an event to remember, as EkoNivaAgro prepared a surprise – space launch of Marta cow. Specially for the occasion, young Academicians had built a collider and demonstrated how it was designed before Marta getting onboard to jolly songs. When everything was ready for the launch, Aleksey Gordeyev, Stefan Duerr and Aleksandr Gusev pressed the big red

№ 58 February 2018 News 7 According to the conclusions of the extended session of the Agriculture Ministry of Ryazan oblast aimed at experience exchange and good partnership reinforcement, cutting- edge technologies will ensure farming industry moving to a Farm’s secret whole new level.

ergey Krupskiy, Director of Ryazan field without any extra driving. machinery control are important for efficient Branch of EkoNiva-Tekhnika, FarmSight is another tool offered by decision making, which saves crop yields, Sgave a detailed account of the EkoNiva to cut on maintenance costs. machine resources and time.’ state- of-the-art technologies applied on Comprehensive machine efficiency The session participants passed a the region’s farms. The John Deere AMS improvement features include diagnostics, resolution on creating a working group system implies machinery equipment repairs and maintenance at off-season to develop and implement a precision ensuring the highest field work time, while machines are in garages. farming system in the region. It was precision. Depending on the navigation ‘Our partners consider precision type and signal strength, the overlap also suggested allocating a part of the farming highly potential’, says Sergey area can be 99% less. In essence, it is regional budget to the development of Krupskiy. an autopiloting system, which makes science and agricultural sector. operators’ job much easier. ‘For instance, the manager of Vyshgorodskiy ‘Country’s food safety is one of our farming enterprise, who also participated in The telematic JDLink system maintains priority tasks’, underlines Sergey the meeting, is not afraid of the innovations. remote connection between a tractor Dudukin, Deputy Chairperson of On his farm, all machines are equipped with and a combine: follows the track, traces Ryazan Oblast Government. ‘And the John Deere AutoTrack guidance system. fuel consumption and the state of implementation of cutting-edge farming There is an increasing number of such machine components. Nearly 25% of all practices and crop quality improvement rational farmers. They understand that the problems can be fixed right away in the are its essential components.’ availability of data to analyze and remote By Daria DENISOVA Heavenly curds For the first time, the Academy of Dairy Sciences has participated in the Quality Test held by Voronezh Standardisation and Metrology Centre.

he curds were tested for says Andrey Pronin, Deputy Manager Moscow Forum and Golden Autumn compliance with the existing of EkoNiva-APK Holding Processing trade fair, so the parameters acclaimed Tregulations in terms of Department. ‘This year, the curds by the by the Standardisation and Metrology organoleptic parameters, fatty acid Academy of Dairy Sciences have been Centre are another testament to our profile and label. awarded the first prizes at WorldFood product’s highest quality.’ Apart from the Academy Dairy Sciences, By Viktor BARGOTIN a random choice of brands for the test included Vkusnoteyevo, Ivan Poddubny, Bogdasha, Mom’s Palms and Rossosh Milk Company. ‘All participating brands showed nearly equal lab test results, but as for the organoleptic parameters, the curds by the Academy of Dairy Sciences became an unrivalled leader and took the first place. ‘Our curds consist of pure protein and are produced by traditional technologies, which ensures the highest taste qualities of our product’,

№ 58 February 2018 8 News

watched a film about EkoNiva. ‘In the film, you saw images of Voronezh land. This land was crossed by the front line 75 years ago, and Wehrmacht soldiers brought a lot of sorrow to the locals,’ says Stefan Duerr. ‘I am a Russian citizen now, but I came to the country as a German, and I am sincerely Understanding the thankful to the people, who made my business in Russia possible, I am highly honoured to be able to work there.’ Russian soul In his acceptance speech, Stefan Duerr also mentioned other historic landmarks: cold war, thaw period, which caused a For the third time, the German-Russian tangible improvement in the relationships, and the crisis of 2014, which ruined a Economic Association has gathered about lot of things that had been achieved with 200 German and Russian entrepreneurs for so much effort. Stefan Duerr pointed out that German companies had suffered its major annual event — Day of Medium- from the embargo more than Russian ones. The Russian government had not Sized Business. left entrepreneurs to the mercy of fate, which helped the business to restore its he event started with the tour of for experience sharing and cooperation in self-confidence. local production facilities followed the farming sector between our countries. ‘I appeal to everybody to look into the Tby a gala reception at the town hall Stefan Duerr has always advocated Russian history, soul and mentality before of Lubeck and continued with the forum fostering mutual understanding between quoting somebody’s derogatory words in Hamburg where 15 speakers delivered our countries. Likewise, the project activity about Russia’, emphasised Stefan Duerr. their speeches, all of them having a covers much more than just experience To conclude, Stefan Duerr stressed that, common appeal to cooperation, mutual exchange within the associations and having a dispute, businessmen look understanding and closer relationship between the political committees.’ for compromises at a negotiation table between Russia and Germany despite Peter Harry Carstensen presented the instead of imposing sanctions on each the current international position. award together with Thomas Overbeck, other, as compared to politicians. The forum opened with Stefan Duerr, President of the German-Russian ‘We, business community, cannot stay out President of EkoNiva Group, solemnly Economic Association. of politics, as we bear a great responsibility accepting an award for outstanding ‘Stefan Duerr embodies the best Russian for our operations, employees and their business achievements in the and German features’, says Thomas families’, explained Stefan Duerr. ‘Despite intercountry economic relations. Overbeck. ‘He is a businessman and a the complicated situation, we can’t stop Peter Harry Carstensen, ex-Prime Minister talented manager, strategically-thinking meeting and sharing economic, cultural of the state of Schleswig-Holstein, and socially responsible, for whom and educational experience. I take this underlined Stefan Duerr’s contribution Russia is a home, who has embraced award as an impetus to keep on myself to the launch of the German-Russian Russian mentality and culture. He has and inspire other people to do it.’ Agrarian and Political Dialogue Project in the brains and he has the heart to create As the participants asserted, the Day the 90s in his congratulating speech. something magnificent. That is why he of Medium-Sized Business is an event has been honoured to become the first ‘Up to this day, it remains BMEL’s aimed at both commercial networking recipient of this accolade, thus setting (Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture and personal communication, which is the highest standard for the successors. of Germany) official project’, says Harry equally important. Carstensen, ‘and an unfailing platform Before the ceremony, all the guests had By Tatiana SIMONENKOVA

№ 58 February 2018 News

harrow’, says Aleksandr Naumov, Sales Department Manager of Vladimir branch of EkoNiva-Tekhnika Holding. ‘It is intended for weed control and managing meadows and pastures. The tined spring-loaded Einbock harrow enhances the efficiency of the natural nitrogen balance in the soil. Efficient Ilkino stock breeding farm specialises in livestock and poultry farming. Besides 200 thousand chickens, the farm has fodder preparation 1,600 lactating cows which produce over 60 tonnes of milk per day. Employees of Vladimir branch of ‘We put a lot of effort into the development of crop production and EkoNiva- Tekhnika and Willi Drews, PhD in vegetable growing’, says Yuriy Katin, Chief Engineer of the enterprise. ‘We grow Agronomy held trainings on the farms of table potatoes and varieties for crisps production. Besides, we grow beets, Vladimir oblast. carrots and cabbage.’ anagers of Ilkino farming and enhance the crop development, Employees of Ilkino showed their enterprise had been looking Willi Drews recommended sowing operation to the guests, which highly Mforward to Willi Drews’ visit. The alfalfa without cover crops and using praised the results the farm had advisor shared his experience, told the nitrogen top-dressing. achieved. farm employees about fodder preparation Employees of Ekoniva-Tekhnika ‘Willi Drews has visited our farm for the technologies and new varieties offered demonstrated cutting edge soil tillage first time’, says Yuriy Katin. ‘he did not by EkoNiva, including perennial ryegrass, and sowing machinery, including expect to find such a successful farming festulolium and alfalfa. Vaderstad Top Down cultivator, Haybuster enterprise deep in the countryside, in ‘Alfalfa is a new crop for our farm’, says 2564, H100, H800, Poettinger fodder Ilkino village. We will take into account Natalia Zinyakova, Agronomist of the preparation machinery, John Deere M7 Willi’s recommendations and the advice farming enterprise. ‘We used to have and M8 Series tractors and Einbock of our colleagues from EkoNiva-Tekhnika. some alfalfa but it did not grow very well Aerostar 1200 weeder harrow. We will apply them in our work to achieve and frequently got killed by frost in winter.’ ‘Several farms showed interest in even better results.’ To improve the overwintering properties the Einbock Aerostar 1200 weeder By Darya DENISOVA Bridging the future On February 5th, the solemn opening ceremony of the winter session of the student agricultural troop MOST took place at Vysokoye dairy.

or the third year in a row, EkoNiva the cooperation with EkoNiva is a huge be true professionals.’ has organised internship for talented step forward in terms of professional ‘EkoNiva has recently reached a historic Fstudents from all over Russia development and career prospects. production landmark — 1,000 tonnes of who view farming as their calling. ‘We are happy to see promising milk per day’, adds Ekaterina Shalneva. The cooperation with the student ambitious young people at our ‘This result proves the importance of agricultural troop, which has become enterprise’, says Vyacheslav Ionov, well- coordinated teamwork in farming.’ a good tradition, continues bringing Chief Herd Manager of EkoNiva Traditionally, the symbolic flag of the project fruit: a lot of young people have Left- Bank Operation. ‘We are ready to was risen over the participants. The event already mastered various agricultural provide all necessary support, share finished with a joyful dancing flash mob. professions and obtained valuable our experience and train the interns to experience on EkoNiva’s farms. By Aleksandr KUTISHCHEV This time, 35 students from 35 regions of Russia took part in the ceremony. Ekaterina Shalneva, specialist of non- profit-making organisation Russian Student Troops, opened the ceremony with welcoming words and wished the participants of the project to enlarge their knowledge, gain new professional skills and charge themselves with positive energy and emotions. Ekaterina stated that for each of the students,

№ 58 February 2018 10 News A trend-setting event! The annual international trade show AgroFarm 2018 has gathered about 400 agricultural companies from 30 countries of the world.

special popularity with the guests of the trade show. ‘Last year, the John Deere T Series harvesters were immensely popular with farmers’, observes Gennady Nepomnyashchiy, Executive Director of EkoNiva-Tekhnika. ‘These drum threshing harvesters fitted with cutting- edge equipment and featuring a large separation area are well- suited to our conditions and capable of harvesting various crops at a high speed. Another popular machine is Tempo planter manufactured by Vaderstad. Due to the high performance and unsurpassed sowing quality these machines will be a perfect match for large farming operations.’ AgroFarm 2018 offered a versatile business programme comprising 50 groFarm is rightfully considered market’, says Sergey Plotnikov, Chief events of different scale. Among the to be one of the largest and most Sales Manager of Tula branch of key events was the 9th meeting of the Aprestigious exhibitions in Russia EkoNiva-Tekhnika. ‘195 hp tractors, National Association of Dairy Producers demonstrating innovative livestock which can be coupled with butterfly (Soyuzmoloko). The participants farming solutions. EkoNiva-Tekhnika mowers are in high demand in livestock of the event observed that within and EkoNiva-Semena take part in the farming. I think the John Deere 6150М the past years, milk production has event every year. will be popular in Russia. It is a reliable demonstrated a sustainable annual ‘EkoNiva-Semena operates all over machine indispensable on any farm. growth of over 3% which has made Russia: from Kaliningrad to Primorskiy Clients of EkoNiva-Tekhnika have it attractive for investors. In his area’, says Aleksandr Novosyolov, Sales already made their orders, and at the speech, Andrey Danilenko, Chairman Manager of EkoNiva-Semena. ‘Our sales beginning of spring, the happy owners of Soyuzmoloko, stated that the milk are growing year by year due to the will receive the first machines.’ production cost index discussed at wide range and high quality of products, The John Deere T series grain the previous meeting was successfully seed purity and high-yielding varieties. harvesters, capable of boosting implemented and is already used In future, we are planning to start machine performance while increasing by milk processors for concluding growing five varieties of lentils. This crop the quality of grain and straw, enjoyed long- term agreements. He also has huge market potential, addressed the representatives and we intend to work on it of the government with intensively.’ a request to keep the EkoNiva-Semena is one governmental support at the of the leading growers of same level. field crop seeds, producing The participants of the meeting approximately 30,000 developed a Task List for certified seeds of cereals, 2018. The Task List includes pulses, fodder crops and suggestions on testing alternative annual and perennial grasses. dairy product traceability EkoNiva-Tekhnika is planning solutions, increasing penalties to continue supplying Russian for repeated dairy product farmers with high-quality adulteration, development state- of-the-art farm machinery. of demand stimulation instruments and other ‘This year, the John Deere initiatives of the Association. 6150М tractor will be launched into the Russian By Viktor BARGOTIN

№ 58 February 2018 Hot Topic 11

Organic farming – level up

Upon successful completion of the The global market is experiencing an organic inspection, the producer receives boom! The demand for organic food produced a compliance certificate. With this certificate, the producer can attract in environmentally-friendly conditions without premium class customers, get access to large markets and sell the products chemicals and GMOs is growing year by year. at a higher price. For the consumer desiring to buy a high-quality healthy he Government of the Russian market players who deceive the product, the certificate serves as a Federation has recently approved buyers by labeling their products as quality guarantee. Tthe Organic Production Bill, which, ‘ecological’, ‘biological’ and ‘organic’. ‘The consumers at supermarkets start as farmers hope, will bring organic ‘We hope that the new law will help paying attention to the quality of the farming to an entirely new level. us to identify the producers selling products’, shares Anatoliy Nakaryakov. The Organic Production Bill was brought adulterated products labeled as ‘It is important for them to buy milk or in before the Government of Russia organic food and keep them out of the meat without GMOs, growth hormones, by Aleksandr Tkachyov, Minister of market’, says Anatoliy antibiotics or pesticides.’ Agriculture of the Russian Federation, Nakaryakov. However, we need to at the meeting presided over by Dmitriy ‘The new law will understand that organic Medvedev, Chairman of the Government allow introducing products occupy a of the Russian Federation. Dmitriy additional measures of more expensive niche. Medvedev commented on the rapid governmental support The organic beef that growth of organic production volumes — subsidies, develop we produce is 40% and the high demand for organic meat, a clear definition of more expensive than vegetables and fruit. By the estimations organic product and conventionally produced of experts, in the nearest future, Russian introduce a single meat; the price of organic share of the world food market can labeling system.’ potatoes can exceed reach from 10% to 25%. Voluntary certification 60 rub/kg, the price of Executive Director of Savinskaya of organic products flour — to 100 rub/kg. Niva organic operation is convinced and the development of a unified The customer poll showed that the new law will set up the strict state register of organic producers that the major part of people ready to legal framework essential for the are among the important provisions buy organic products are residents of development of organic farming of the new law. Certification in megapolises. ‘The Organic Production Law will accordance with organic standards is Currently the organic market in Russia demonstrate that the development of a complicated procedure and only the is only starting to gain momentum. organic farming is encouraged by the most committed producers can pass it. However, analysts consider that it has government’, says Anatoliy Nakaryakov, ‘The certification includes a incredible development prospects. Executive Director of Savinskaya Niva. comprehensive inspection of all Organic farming is gaining its unique ‘It will bring order to the organic food production stages, including raw niche, and a healthy lifestyle is market, prove that organic products are materials, seeds, feed, fertiliser, soil becoming the hottest new trend! in demand and, most importantly, help to properties and even disposal process’, Russia is sure to succeed in organic fight against organic food adulteration.’ continues Anatoliy Nakaryakov, farming since it has an undisputable So far, the consumers cannot be sure ‘therefore, producers opting for organic competitive edge — the world’s richest of the quality of the products they buy farming must be ready for all the steps natural resources. since there are quite a lot of dishonest of certifying authority inspection.’ By Darya DENISOVA Aleksandr Tkachyov, Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation: ‘Within the past 15 years, the global organic market has grown almost fivefold and reached 100 billion dollars. Currently, it constitutes 10% of the total global food market. By the estimations of analysts, by 2022, organic market will have exceeded 200 billion dollars.’

№ 58 February 2018 12 Technical inspection John Deere 1890 demonstrates unfailing performance

The 1890 air seed drill, an efficient seeding tool from the lineup of sowing combinations by John Deere, has proved indispensable on many farms.

long with reliability and machine took place at the premises of however there is no need to replace ergonomics of the globally our enterprise’, says Andrey Zadorozhniy, any of the hardware, whether coulters, Arenowned machinery brand, the Head of the Crop Production project of bearings or other parts, as yet.’ technical features of the model give it a AGROEKO-Yug (Voronezh oblast). ‘We were A similar sowing unit is in its fifth year considerable competitive edge. quite impressed with its performance: both of operation at OJSC Voznesenskoye ‘The seeding tool comes in the sowing quality and the emergence (Novosibirsk oblast). exceeded our expectations.’ five configurations’, says Eduard ‘With it, we can successfully grow such Ivanov, Head of Sales Department of Currently, mini-till practices are in crops as barley and oats under no-till, EkoNiva- Chernozemye. ‘It is available in place on the farm, with the prospect of in spite of our heavy soil’, says Pavel widths from 9.1 m up to 18.3 m. Although switching over to no-till. The management Grevtsov, Chief Agronomist. ‘Over the the model has been designed first and is planning to purchase the John Deere vegetation season, we plant an area of foremost for high-residue fields, its 1890 seed drill this year. around 2,500 ha. The John Deere 1890 functionality extends far beyond that.’ ‘We are using the John Deere 1890 has demonstrated unfailing performance!’ The seed drill features the John Deere with the working width of 12.3 m’, At Letyazhye family farm (Tomsk oblast), 90 Series openers with 5 cm of float says Aleksandr Pechorkin, Head of the the sowing combination has been used in the opener system, thus ensuring Pechorkin family farm (Kemerovo oblast). since 2014. ground contour following without extra ‘The implement has been in operation ‘We grow peas, oats, barley, wheat, and down-pressure. since 2011, and we’ve had no issues with canola employing various techniques, it as yet. We sow peas, wheat, canola and ‘The exclusive active hydraulic downforce from conventional cultivation to no-till, barley employing no-till the practices. Last enables us to set the down pressure to with the John Deere 1890 doing an year, around 3,400 ha was sown with the as much as 180 kg’, adds Eduard Ivanov. invariably good job every time’, comments use of no-till.’ ‘And the use of a one-piece seedboot, Pavel Kulmanakov, an agronomist. ‘We which is spring-loaded against the disc In CJSC Druzhba (Voronezh oblast), the sow around 1,700 ha in spring, and about blade, ensures accurate seed placement.’ same model of seed drill with the working 800 ha with it in autumn. The seed drill is The implement is also equipped with width of 9 m has been used with deep soil reliable and versatile, it has not failed us a clogging sensors which monitor the tillage for four years. single time over the years of operation.’ state of each seed tube, passing the ‘I know for a fact that the implement is There are a lot of factors influencing the information onto the display, and alert the virtually indestructible’, says Valentin harvest, yet it is probably the sowing operator in case of a need of cleanout. Babkin, Chief Engineer. ‘Over the growing stage that is crucial. Whatever the Another advantage of the John Deere season, we sow around 4,000 ha with farming technique, the John Deere 1890 1890 seed drill is its flexibility: the it, mainly wheat and barley. We’ve sowing unit has proved time and time implement folds to a compact size in never had any serious breakdowns, again that it never lets growers down. a matter of seconds for convenient the equipment is very reliable. Routine by Aleksandr KUTISHCHEV transport from one site to another. maintenance is scheduled for this year, Сustomers of EkoNiva-Chernozemye have provided first-hand accounts of their experience with the seed drill. ‘Last autumn, a demo show of the

№ 58 February 2018 Technical inspection 13

Always on top! EkoNiva-Tekhnika has summed up the results of 2017 and shared the trend estimates in farm machinery sales.

he John Deere and JCB machinery rated power of 431 hp. Thanks to the between man and nature which at times continues to enjoy consistently largest active separation area among challenges the former one. The industry Thigh demand; powerful tractors, the straw- walker counterparts, these is a high-risk one, so the decisive factor combine harvesters and loaders of machines harvest all kinds of crops, when it comes to machinery purchase these brands constitute a major part including those with super-high yields. is not so much the specification, as the of farming machinery fleets all over The grain hopper with the capacity of result. Performance of the specified the country, optimising the costs and 11,000 l discharges at a record speed models needs no advertising — it has increasing the performance. — up to 125 l/s. The electronic engine been proved in action. The flagship in the John Deere line-up control gives the engine extra 34 hp to ‘Such services as JD Link and JCB is the upgraded 8R Series tractor, a ensure smooth unloading into chaser LiveLink give the manufacturers an powerful machine offering exceptional bin on the go. edge over competitors’, says Gennadiy operator comfort and ease of The 531-70 telehandler remains No.1 Nepomnyashchiy, Regional Director of maintenance. The 360-degree lighting, in the JCB best-selling chart. A real EkoNiva-Tekhnika. ‘The software enables the AutoTrac system eliminating 90% of highlight of the machine is its Smooth the farmers to monitor machinery overlaps, the PowerShift transmission Ride System (SRS) which guarantees operation remotely, registering and with 16 forward and 5 reverse speeds, excellent operator comfort and boom analysing numerous parameters.’ the closed-centre hydraulic system are stability during load handling at high One look at the tablet screen is enough to some of its key features. A wide range speed. The DIESELMAX engine saves track a machine down, check its current of engine power ratings (from 295 hp fuel even at low rpm due to even power use and adjust its operation, if necessary. up to 370 hp) and freedom to add distribution to hydraulic system and Besides, the services generate fuel extra features ensure meeting specific transmission. The operator workplace is consumption reports, log events and alert requirements of virtually any farms. ergonomically flawless: it has both the of potential malfunctions. 100-percent proportional illuminated The 6155М, 6175М and 6195М tractors ‘It is noteworthy that JD Link and JCB servo joystick controls and the come second in the list of most popular LiveLink are viewed only as tools for adjustable steering column position. models. Featuring the TLS suspension, operation optimisation abroad’, adds Pyotr the 6-cylinder PowerTech E 6.8 l engine The JCB SSL 225, the smaller version of Gusev, Head of Smart Farming Department with a power ranging from 155 up to the telehandler, is also highly sought-after. of EkoNiva-Tekhnika, ‘whereas in Russia 195 hp, a maximum lifting capacity of up The lifting capacity of the manoeuvrable they are additionally perceived as ways of to 8.5 tonnes and a comfortable cab with mini-loader reaches 1,021 kg, and misuse prevention on site.’ a 310° visibility, the machines are highly the DIESELMAX engine complete with No doubt, both the John Deere and the versatile and reliable. optimisation features makes it one of the JCB machinery — enhanced with the most efficient and powerful in its class. The The John Deere T670 combine is corresponding software tools — offers model had been designed for hassle-free traditionally among the top-sellers. The farmers total protection against the maintenance and operator comfort. model is equipped with the 6-cylinder elements and the human factor. turbocharged 9 l engine with the At the heart of agriculture lies the dialogue by Aleksandr KUTISHCHEV

Popular models in 2017 (units sold)

42 26 14 13

JD Tractor 8R JD Tractor 6M JD Combine T670 JD Header F Series

38

6 5 4 JCB Telehandler JCB Loader SSL 225 JCB Telehandler JCB Telehandler 531-70 541-70 535-95

№ 58 February 2018 14 Technical inspection

aybuster bale choppers have been operating on farms all over Hthe world for decades. Russian farmers have also shown an increasing interest in Haybuster lately. The machine combines the functions of a feedmill and a shredder for hay, straw, maize and other crops. ‘For the domestic farming sector, this is truly innovative equipment’, says Gennadiy Nepomnyashiy, Director of EkoNiva-Tekhnika. ‘It has been drawing more attention of progressive farms recently, however, there are still many questions left. So, we hold seminars to Haybuster: meets let farmers have a closer look at the new options. Several of these processors all your needs! have recently been purchased by our partners, and now they are putting the machines through their paces. On the initiative of EkoNiva-Tekhnika, a As a rule, one Haybuster is enough even for a large farming enterprise for the series of seminars aimed at experience first time. After completing its work on one farm, the machine is transported to exchange in dairy farming were held for the another farm, thus serving the needs of several farms in turns. clients in December. The seminars took place ‘We have been using Haybuster for at the modern dairy facilities of EkoNivaAgro. processing grain, straw, hay, for a year now’, says Viktor Ostrokostov, Engineer Demonstration of Haybuster equipment as of EkoNivaAgro — Right Bank Operation, Voronezh oblast. ‘Working almost non-stop, the latest innovation in forage processing five days a week, the machine prepares forages for several dairy farms. Moreover, a became one of the highlights of the event. John Deere 6220 tractor with a fork working in tandem with the processor has improved ‘Definitely, it is a state-of-the-art, equipment, the specialists of the operation rate.’ multifunctional machine significantly EkoNiva- Tekhnika arrived and trained Pieter Ham, Livestock Department optimising farm work.’ our two machine operators’, says Manager of Krasniy Mayak LLC, A Haybuster H800 was purchased by Aleksandr Gromov, Deputy Manager Yaroslavl oblast, also notes the Pakhma farming enterprise, Kostroma of the farming enterprise. ‘Generally, advantages of this equipment. oblast, in January, and it immediately we process dry straw for feeding and ‘We use Haybuster for shredding bales got down to work. bedding. We have installed the largest sieves, and the machine shredding twice a week for 3-4 hours’, says Pieter. ‘Soon after we had acquired the quality is very high indeed, the length of cut is 2-5 cm. We shredded five-six 200- kg bales of straw per hour at the very beginning. Now the output is even higher. It is a new technology for us, so it takes us some time to get the hang of it.’ According to Aleksandr Gromov, the Haybuster H800 in combination with the John Deere 6 Series tractor meets daily needs of two livestock enterprises. Agriculture is traditionally quite a conservative industry, nevertheless, market demands encourage the most progressive farmers to use advanced practices. No doubt, soon, Haybuster equipment will become an essential part of any successful farming enterprise, as the performance efficiency is becoming increasingly important. By Aleksandr Kutishchev

№ 58 February 2018 Technical inspection 15

Speed + Precision = Tempo

The development of the Vаderstad Tempo seed drill, unveiled globally in 2011, marked a significant milestone for the row- crop seed drilling segment. The Swedish family enterprise has proved the simple truth time and time again: multi-generational family business, with its loyalty to tradition and meticulous selection of solutions, delivers astonishing innovations.

ntil the Tempo was developed, residue. To achieve good seed-to-soil Tempo seed drills plants around 500 ha farmers had had two options: contact in such conditions, the seed disc of sunflower and 300 ha of maize. Ueither sowing precision or speed. can be equipped with a knockout wheel. Aleksandr Polenov, Head of Polenov For many a year, the combination of Prior to the sowing season, the seed farming enterprise (Voronezh oblast), the two remained an unattainable meters can be calibrated for a certain has been using Tempo for just over a dream. The dream came true thanks to type of seeds — and that not only for year, but he has no doubt as to its high Vаderstad. But how could they do it? the whole seed drill, but for each row functionality and reliability. One of the key innovations was the unit individually. Besides, a separate ‘Its signature features are precision, patented PowerShoot technology electric drive on each row unit makes uniform seed distribution and sowing involving electric-drive precision seed it possible to shut off separate row depth’, says the farmer. ‘Out of the meters which maintain full control units, if necessary. 1,200 ha of cropland that we have, of the seed all the way down to the The seed hopper with the capacity 450 ha was sown with the Tempo soil. The PowerShoot uses the excess of 70 l enables an 8-row seed drill to last spring. I must admit we are quite pressure in the row unit to shoot the plant around 20 hectares of maize impressed with its performance!’ seeds down the seed tube. The press before refilling. Judging by all accounts, the Swedish wheel fulfils two important tasks: it ‘We first saw the machine in action know-how and the Russian black soil stops the seed at the exact intended at Voronezh Field Day in 2014’, says make a truly unbeatable combination. spot and then presses it into moist Aleksandr Kugutov, Head of Niva, LLC soil, thus ensuring optimal seed- to- soil by Aleksandr KUTISHCHEV (Voronezh oblast). ‘It captured our contact and a fast and even attention with its agility at once. The germination and preventing the seed fact that an 8-row seed drill could do from rolling along the seed furrow. a good job of sowing at up to 16 kmh Flexibility of the seed placement system came as a welcome surprise.’ to uneven terrain has been significantly The enterprise cultivates wheat, barley, improved, eliminating the need to slow sugar beets, sunflower, maize. The down on sloped areas. performance of the old machinery left The sowing quality is analysed via the much to be desired. monitor at the bottom of the row unit. ‘The sowing depth wasn’t always The data is transferred to E-Control, perfect, the emergence was far from which displays precision statistics in uniform’, goes on Aleksandr Kugutov. the form of graphs. ‘Vаderstad Tempo solved whatever The weight of the Tempo has been issues we had had. Since then, we have distributed over the row units, making been buying a unit each year. Year 2018 it suitable for both conventional tillage will be no exception: the purchase has and mini- or no-till. It is a well-known fact been planned for March.’ that plowless agriculture often leaves Over the sowing season, each of the the field covered with a large amount of

№ 58 February 2018 16 First-hand experience

Crop of the future Area under lentil, one of the most ancient agricultural crops, is currently expanding all over Russia. For citizens of many countries it is a major source of protein, capable of replacing many products due to its nutritional properties. Lentils have taken their rightful place at trading platforms advancing to the level of crop of the future, thus driving the Russian farmers to grow them.

entils are a warm-season crop, yet for pea seeds is 140%. lentils stand. However, after- emergence during the early stages of growth Lentils produce a rich crop on loamy, herbicides Imazetapir (Pivot, Lthey do well in cool weather, too. sandy black, brown and light podzolic 0.7- 0.8 l/ ha) and Metribuzin (Sencor) in The seeds begin to germinate at the soils. As a pulse crop, they take over 2/3 the amount of up to 0.6 kg/g are more temperature of 3-4 °С. The sprouts of the required nitrogen out of the air and efficient in actual practice. tolerate frost as low as –5-6 °С. Not only 1/3 from the soil. And still, nitrogen The most challenging stage of the entire only young, but also adult plants are fertiliser in the amount of 20-30 kg/ ha lentil cultivation technology is harvesting. frost- resistant. The total heat requirement of active matter is worth applying on First of all, lentils mature unevenly, i.e. of the major lentils varieties over the poor sod-podzolic soils and upon straw from the bottom upwards, so harvesting vegetation amounts to 1500- 1900 °С at plowback during pre-sowing tillage. should begin at 18% moisture following the base temperature of +10 °С. Production of 1 tonne of seeds and the which the mass should be gradually Lentils are more drought-resistant than correspondent amount of green mass brought down to 14% during cleaning peas or faba beans. The large-seed forms takes up to 45- 60 kg of nitrogen, 14- 20 kg and aeration. Secondly, the stem can are less drought-hardy than the small- of phosphorus, 30-40 kg of potassium, grow up to 25-75 cm high, it is very seeded ones. They require moisture 25- 30 kg of calcium, boron, molybdenum branchy, prone to lodging by the harvest during seed imbibition and germination. and other microelements out of the soil. time, so low cut of the stand with Flex The amount of water to be imbibed for Soil herbicides such as 1,6-2.0 l/ha of cutting platforms (see Photo 1) is a seed germination for lentils is 93-119% Dual Gold or 0.8-1.2 l/ha of Frontier mandatory requirement. of the weight of seeds, whereas the same Optima may be applied to protect the For harvesting of lentils — the same goes

HydraFlex cutterbar reduces losses to 0.3 t/ha

№ 58 February 2018 First-hand experience 17 for pulses in general — the threshing 2 million seeds/ha, which, considering drum speed needs to be reduced to the thousand kernel weight of seeds of 500-600 rpm, whereas the fan and sieve 35–38 g, translates into from 70 up to 80 settings remain the same as for wheat. kg/ha. Due to the tendency to lodge and In the recent years, lentils production has tricky harvesting, it is better to sow lentils significantly increased worldwide to reach with Rapid seed drills from Vaderstad 6.4 million tonnes in 2017. The leader which ensure perfect soil smoothing. in this crop is Canada, which accounts The yield of variety CDC Redcliff at the for up to 60% of the world’s lentils Shchigry state testing plot reached production. Canadian climate is in many 5.1 tonnes/ha in 2016, whereas in respects similar to the Russian one, so production stands it was 3.2 t tonnes/ ha EkoNiva-Semena turned for expertise to on an area of 539 ha at Zashchitnoye in their partners from North America when 2017. The purchase price was 40 rub/ kg faced with the choice of the best varieties in 2016 and 18 rub/kg in 2017. and lentils production practices. Following Lentils have become a much sought-after multi-year lentils trials at Zashchitnoye crop which has proved its profitability. enterprise, variety CDC Redcliff was It may be grown on vast territories, on chosen. Its originator is the University of farms with different soil and climatic Saskatchewan in Canada. CDC Redcliff conditions. And the high-tech approach is an intensive variety for conventional offered to its customers by EkoNiva is technology (without Clearfield). The key here. Specialists of the company testa of the variety is gray, whereas the provide individual consulting covering cotyledons are orange. CDC Redcliff virtually all aspects of production of the requires an average of 85 days to reach popular agricultural crop. maturity. by Willi Drews, The variety is sown at the sowing rate of PhD in Agronomy, Consultant of EkoNiva.

№ 58 February 2018 18 Livestock farming Since the beginning of the year, the herd management software at EkoNiva dairies has New feeding been enhanced with standards WinMix and EkoFeed, two flagship products.

inMix is the software enabling possibilities for experience exchange. Full transition to WinMix is expected farmers to balance feeding Next comes the EkoFeed software. It is to take around two months. At the Wrations based on 130 an in-house development for managing moment, the process of input of the parameters, which is supplied in ration batching and feedstuff distribution rations currently used in the holding is numerous local versions combined as well as automation of ingredient underway. EkoFeed is due to be installed together on a server. The software inventory. It accomplishes such tasks at all EkoNiva dairies within the coming allows a feeding specialist to put as on-site monitoring of machinery six months. Next, the two services are together a ration and upload it onto the operators, analysis of compliance with going to be synchronised, giving a major server for further online approval by the the feeding parameters set in WinMix, boost to interaction among nutritionists of chief nutritionist of the operation and generation of analytical data on feed different levels and operations. the chief nutritionist of the holding. consumption and forage conversion, ‘The experience of the companies As compared to its counterparts, WinMix connection with the inventory and manufacturing similar software, such provides not only ration calculation, but accounting software and automatic as DiGi-Star, shows, that even at dairies also easy data exchange. For example, deduction of distributed feedstuffs. with good feedstuff management with specialists from Siberia can gain insight ‘Allowable tolerance is within 3%’, says TMR- tracker installed, deviations upon into the rations of their colleagues in Victor Kosintsev, Chief Nutritionist batching may amount to from 10 to 20%. Voronezh and maybe take some know-how of EkoNiva-APK Holding. ‘Anything Our benchmark is 3%. Just imagine: if on board. Any specialist with access to the beyond this value, and we get a notice annual forage costs are in billions of rubles, software can leave comments, point out of inappropriate machine operator then every percent saved becomes a mistakes or consult with their colleagues performance. We see the error and draw significant amount, which we would much when in doubt. Such flexibility opens up the operator’s attention to it.’ rather invest into further development.’ by Aleksandr KUTISHCHEV

Cows don’t lie! A workshop for Russian livestock specialists from EkoNiva has been held at Bushovka dairy within Kaluzhskaya Niva by David Reid, a famous American veterinarian and dairy consultant. avid Reid indicated milking routine of the work processes at the dairy, David after stripping the cows’, says David and equipment settings as the Reid drew the audience’s attention to Reid, ‘otherwise milk quality may drop Dkey factors influencing milk quality the intricacies of milking. For example, dramatically. Once you’ve created and animal health. he suggested shortening the milk hoses comfortable conditions for the animals ‘According to David Reid, modifying running from the claw to the milk pipe. He all the way from the corral to the milking equipment settings towards encouraged the employees to make small milking parlour, an increase in milk increasing residual milk in the udder changes that will reap big results. production won’t be long in coming, and minimising teat exposure to ‘The excessively long milk hoses often because cows don’t lie.’ vacuum helps to prevent mastitis cases twisted causing poor cluster alignment Bushovka dairy is currently home to in cows’, says Vasiliy Tsygankov, Chief on the udder thus increasing mastitis around 3,000 head of Holstein and Herd Manager of Kaluzhskaya Niva. risk’, shared Vasiliy Tsygankov. ‘We took Brown Swiss cattle. Daily milk yield ‘The milking threshold used to be set his advice and shortened the hoses.’ amounts to 90 tonnes. Overall, David at 5 seconds, but David recommended The veterinarian took time to ensure Reid highly praised the way the dairy changing it to 1 second. Another tip: the the milk harvesters were doing a was run and promised to return to share minimum amount of residual milk in the proper job, with a few practical tips to more know-how with his colleagues udder should be 250 ml.’ aid with milk flow. from EkoNiva. Having gained insight into the organisation ‘It is necessary to clean the teat end by Darya DENISOVA

№ 58 February 2018 Seed growing 19 Rich crop guaranteed The customer base of EkoNiva- Semena covers over 50 regions of Russia and the CIS countries. In 2017, the company advanced further south and east. KazAgro (Astana) and YUGAGRO (Krasnodar) trade fairs provided a great opportunity to learn how EkoNiva seeds had fared in new climatic conditions.

Kanat Zhantleuov, Director General Vladimir Larionov, Chief protein content of 13%. As compared to of LLC AR (Kazakhstan, North Agronomist of Vikhaev R.D. its Krasnodar counterparts, MV Nador Kazakhstan oblast): farming enterprise (Kazakhstan, shows much higher lodging resistance thus facilitating loss-free harvesting.’ ‘We purchased C1 seeds of winter Eastern Kazakhstan oblast): wheat variety Skipetr. We sowed into ‘We purchased seeds of Licamero and Yuriy Fedorenko, Head of spring wheat residue at a sowing Sonore soft spring wheats and the peas Purchasing Department of ZAO rate of 200 kg/ha. We sowed two variety Jackpot. We were quite happy with Vityaz-M (Rostov oblast, Rodionovo- Krasnodar varieties at the same time the results. Variety Licamero produced Nesvetayskaya rayon): for comparison. We skipped fertiliser a dense uniform stand and a yield of ‘I was looking for offers of Redcliff lentil application in autumn. Skipetr went into 3.9 tonnes/ha with 30% of high-quality dormancy at tillering stage (main shoot on the internet. I contacted EkoNiva and gluten. Note that we had a drought — only I was promptly granted the certificate and 3 tillers). The temperature dropped 30 mm of rain over the entire period. below minus 35 degrees Celsius, and for the variety and its photo. A visit Naturally, we paid a great deal of attention to EkoNivaAgro farm, from which we the depth of frost to crop protection and penetration reached collected the seeds, made a favourable applied the necessary impression on our agronomist: young, 2.5 m. The variety chemical treatment, overwintered well. Root skilled staff, perfect order everywhere. We so we expected a system rotting occurred witnessed modern approach to work at its good stand, but the in spring due to a thick best: we were able to book the required reality even exceeded layer of snow. After a volume of seeds, the logistics was beyond our expectations. major stress, the tillers reproach, and the friendly attitude of the As for Jackpot were bigger than the employees — ready to accommodate our peas, the variety is main stem. Intensive needs even in off-work hours — further well- established in regrowth started once enhanced our experience. We were quite we applied fertiliser. Russia, but we have pleased with the yield of the Redcliff Skipetr regrew better become pioneers lentils — 2.6 tonnes/ha.’ with it in Kazakhstan. than other varieties, Andrey Komarov, Director of Niva- with the flag leaf visible. The variety has good The spring was cool, market properties Agro LLC (The Republic of Crimea, and there was hardly and doesn’t lodge. we Krasnogvardeyskoye district): any rainfall throughout reaped a good crop ‘Initially, we sowed C1 seeds of MV the grain filling stage without losses. EkoNiva Nador variety. The crop reached of development. varieties have quite a 5.2 tonnes/ha of 3-4 Class wheat As a result, the good potential in our — nearly food quality — with protein yield amounted to conditions.’ content of 11.5% and test weight of 1.75 tonnes/ ha, at Vitaliy Perstkov, over 790 g/l. The previous crop was a protein content of Director of peas, without virtually any fertiliser. 14%, thus exceeding the performance As soon as the leaf tips turned yellow of other varieties. But we regard this as Perstkova N.V. family enterprise (Krasnodar area, Kurganinsk district): after spring frost, we treated the a good result considering that this is stand with a fungicide. In the end, MV the first year. We are going to continue ‘We bought seeds of MV Nador winter Nador outperformed the neighbouring the experiment and sow winter crops wheat. The crop has produced a stable Krasnodar variety. We are also going drawing on our previous experience. yield of 6.7-6.8 tonnes/ha for a second to grow variety MV 37-14, alongside For example, we will sow the seeds into year in a row. The grain is rated Class Madras and Rocket peas.’ lighter soil which gets warm easier than 3, with gluten content of 24%, and by Tatiana SIMONENKOVA the black soil next time.’ № 58 February 2018 20 our staff

thanks to the prompt assistance of the Anastasiya Barmina: veterinary personnel to the animal. Over the internship, I gained experience Agriculture is an entire world with in all areas: reproduction, calf barn, hoof trimming and hospital pen. The mentors taught us to analyse work its own philosophy processes, give injections, breed animals, prescribe treatment to sick The internship is over, and it is with sadness cows, trim hoofs and much more. The veterinarian needs to create that the young specialists are leaving favourable conditions for the animal, like a psychologist. A true vet is an intelligent, EkoNiva farms since work in agriculture has responsible person, constantly seeking proved interesting, even though complicated. to improve their practical and theoretical know-how, possessing optimism and a good sense of humour since these Anastasiya Barmina. ‘The first work koNiva puts emphasis on working qualities make the work easier. Our term left a lasting impression on with students, regularly inviting profession requires multiple skills: from me. I worked at Vysokoye dairy and Ethem to their enterprises to take covering a silage trench to performing I particularly enjoyed the way young internship and upgrade their skills. complicated surgery operations. Students-trainees gain ample experience trainees were treated by the staff. We and top-level proficiency, which is were all members of one big team, “A doctor treats the people, while a essential for their future career. where an atmosphere of friendship and veterinarian treats the mankind.” This powerful quote is what drives us. We ‘A young specialist only becomes a mutual understanding prevailed, and one could always count on the mentors’ act locally but through our joint effort we professional when theoretical knowledge achieve the result that affects the whole is supported by field experience’, points help and support in a difficult situation. For example, sometimes animals may world. I don’t regret having dedicated my out Stefan Duerr, Director of EkoNiva life to agriculture — it is an entire world Group. ‘Theory without practice is have unforeseen complications resulting from administration of certain medicines. in itself, with its own philosophy, science, nothing, that is why we put in a great and common sense wisdom.’ deal of effort into the preparation of Exactly such case happened in my by Victor BARGOTIN young workforce for our company.’ practice, luckily the issue got solved Last year alone, 550 students from all over Russia took the summer training course with EkoNiva. EkoNivaAgro, the largest enterprise, became a home and a workplace to 35 emerging agricultural specialists from the Russian Student Agricultural Troop MOST for a few months. Anastasiya Barmina, a student of Kirov State Agricultural Academy, is one of those lucky enough to have spent the summer as a member of the Agricultural Troop MOST. She shares her impressions with us, tells us about herself and provides insight into her future profession of veterinarian. ‘It was a memorable summer’, says

№ 58 February 2018 Our people 21 Vladimir Frolov: My destiny is in my village

Vladimir Frolov, a peasant by birth, a laureate of the Book of Honour of Liski district, an awardee of the ‘Gratitude on behalf of Voronezh Land’ Badge of Honour, whose work has been widely recognised, including by the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia, is one of the most respected employees of EkoNiva.

in the fact that all the kg of milk per cow per year. And these specialists of the farm impressive figures are easy to explain: are local people and improvements in labour management, bitterly recounts the late young stock management and forage 90s when for months procurement practices. Modern milking on end salaries were parlours allow milkers to handle 70 not paid on dilapidated head per miling, instead of the 17-20 collective farms. they used to milk on collective farms ‘In an effort to save the in former times. There is virtually no collective farm from manual labour on the dairy: everything demise, and the people is automated. And if in the first years — from unemployment of work we adopted new technologies and poverty, Aleksandr from others both abroad and in other Rybenko and I went in regions of Russia, today people come search of prosperous to learn from us. Many of our foreign and responsible visitors cannot but wonder at EkoNiva investors as far as to dairies as they come to Russia with Moscow more than the preconception that this country’s once’, continues ivestock farming has been an economy is in shambles. Mr Frolov. ‘But, unfortunately, only inseparable part of my whole life, “benefactors” with absolutely nothing ‘I’m glad that we have opened our with my native village Schuchye ‘L to their name other than a suitcase full own school of livestock farming which becoming my destiny’, says Vladimir of stamps, seeking to grab the land and attracts young people’, concludes Frolov. ‘Out of the entire cohort, only 3 sell it on, came our way.’ Vladimir Frolov. ‘And it is with great of us boys opted to stay in the village, pleasure that I pass the know-how It is a known fact that not all workers everybody else streamed into the city. on to the young specialists who come of the collective farm received the I was not tempted by urban life, so here after graduation from institutes establishment of EkoNivaAgro in instead, I entered Bobrov Technical in Volgograd, Rostov, and Voronezh. Vocational School to become a machine Shchuchye favourably, besides the company whose main line of business They are drawn by good salaries and operator and graduated with honours. career prospects. A lot of the young Then, just like any other young man at the time was crop production did not intend to take up livestock farming. people, in the capacity of managers at the time, I went to the army and of dairies already, point out that the upon completion of serice entered ‘But when in a dry year it was only school has enabled them to acquire Ostrogozhsk Agricultural College. I through dairies that we survived, foundational skills and prepared them combined studying at Voronezh State whatever doubt we had had as to the for independent work.’ Agricultural University and working first value of cattle farming was dispelled’, in the capacity of a herd manager, then he recounts. ‘And if before people Mr Frolov’s family pride is his a chief herd manager, and finally a were purely money-driven, now they two successful children and four deputy director for livestock production are developing a strong work ethic. grandchildren. Following in the footsteps at a commercial dairy farm, a part of my Respectable salaries have changed of his father, the son graduated from an native collective farm Tikhiy Don. people’s attitude towards labour. There agricultural institute and Moscow Law Today, Vladimir Frolov is a manager are 1,500 head of cattle at my farm, 625 School, whereas the daughter, who has of a commercial dairy farm belonging of which are dairy cows. With an average a medical diploma, now works at the to EkoNivaAgro and a consultant in daily milk production of over 1,500 company’s laboratory. livestock production. He takes great pride tonnes of milk, we harvest up to 8,500 by Victor BARGOTIN based on material from Liski magazine № 58 February 2018 22 Our people

Let’s go skiing!

The first EkoNivaAgro ski race was held at a afterwards I managed to break away th from other contestants and get to ski base in Liski on 4 February. Above-zero the finish line first. I would like to temperature, gusty winds and rain did not thank EkoNivaAgro for the excellent organisation of the ski race, positive dampen the competition atmosphere. On the emotions and the opportunity to socialise with my colleagues outside work.’ contrary, had the weather conditions been Aleksandr Timchenko came in second and Sergey Ovcharenko was third in the men’s perfect with the temperature slightly below zero senior race. In the men’s junior race, there also was a serious battle. Having shown and a smooth ski track, the ski race would not the best result, Daniil Savchuk came in first, Artyom Stupakov was second and have been as compelling and intense. Andrey Veselyev was third.’ Not only adults, but also children were he contestants were the employees had thoroughly prepared for the able to take part in the ski race. A Kids’ of all subdivisions of EkoNivaAgro. contest: they had identical sports race was organised for the little athletes. The girls opened the competition jackets and ski equipment. Moreover, T Konstantin Kepf was first, Yelizaveta by a short-distance race. Soon after they had trained a few days before the Pluzhnikova came in second and Dmitry the start, the race leaders showed up competition, which, as well as his good Deyev finished third. on the horizon. Alyona Romanova was shape, helped Ruslan Biksaliyev, the first to cross the finish line, Anna Dairy Manager in Verkhniy Ikorets, ‘It is the first time we have held a Artyumakova was the runner-up, and to win the men’s race. ski competition’, says Aleksey Afanasyev, Chairman of Liliya Denisova came in third. ‘It is always a pleasure Trade Union Committee of ‘The mood is excellent, though the to participate in such EkoNivaAgro. ‘Sports life of the weather has fallen short of expectations. competitions’, says company should develop in It has not affected the sports festival, Ruslan Biksaliyev. all directions; therefore, we fortunately’, shared her emotions Alyona ‘Due to weather have moved on to a whole Romanova, the women’s race winner. ‘It conditions, the ski next level and now provide the is terrific that the company management track is worse than employees with the opportunity cares for healthy lifestyle and holds yesterday, when to participate in sports events. sports events like this. They have a we had a training I would like to thank Aleksandr powerful team-building effect and are session; however, Rybenko, Director of important for our unity, because we are a it is possible to EkoNivaAgro, for supporting big team both in work and in sports.’ ski on it. The the corporate sports and toughest Alyona Romanova, Deputy Chief Herd including cross-country competition Manager for Young Stock of EkoNivaAgro skiing in our sports agenda. was at the — Left Bank Operation, apart from Winter provides as many start, skiing, also plays volleyball and table opportunities to compete tennis and is a regular participant of outdoors as summer. So, EkoNivaAgro sports events. after today, we are starting Men and boys competed for to prepare for winter two sets of medals in long- fishing contest, which will distance races. Participants from be held on 17th February.’ EkoNivaAgro- Vostochnoye Operation by Victor BARGOTIN

№ 58 February 2018 Our Academy 23 Keeping Siberian calves warm mending. The worn-out lining can be easily changed without impairing the warming capacity of the jacket.’ Alina Kosogova, a 9th form student, is the founder and creative leader of the Jackets for Calves project. She receives an allowance from Sibirskaya Niva, the social partner of the school, for successful implementation of the calf jacket project. ‘I am fond of making clothes for people, so I have decided to try my hand at something different. When we were visiting EkoNiva’s dairy, we toured the young stock facility. I was pleased to see that the calves were kept in very comfortable conditions, on dry straw, undisturbed by draughts. However, the temperature in winter can go down as low as 40 °C below zero! So, I decided to protect the calves from severe weather conditions’, shares Alina. ‘I would like to thank the supervisors of our project: Alexandra Lyakhova and Tatiana Kapishnikova. But for them, my ideas would have remained on paper. In Alina Kosogova, a 15-year-old school- girl, the future, we are planning to improve our product by experimenting with has designed warm jackets to save accessories and materials to create the world’s best calf jackets! Moreover, after Siberian calves from frosts. providing all the calves with proper winter wear, we consider making clothes for all en students of dedicated agricultural are born until they are one month of age. the animals in EkoNiva. I am sure that class of Maslyanino school № 1 At 5 °C degrees below zero, jackets help the cows will feel our love and care and T(Novosibirsk oblast) provide calves to feel comfortable. continue producing delicious milk for the substantial assistance to Sibirskaya Niva! ‘Students of the agricultural class have Academy of Dairy Sciences!’ The girls make jackets for newborn calves provided invaluable help to us. They Find us on: so that they could feel warm during severe have improved the existing jacket design #amnmilk Siberian winters. making it better suited for re-use without The students are doing their best to protect the animals from cold. Students of 8th – 10th forms meet after school and set to work every day. It takes them 2 hours to make one jacket. Within one month the girls make 50 units and receive payment for their work. The upper layer of the jacket is made of diagonal cloth. Dense, elastic and wear- resistant, it ensures that the jackets do not lose their shape. The middle layer made of polyester batting helps to keep warm. The bottom layer is made of quilted cloth making the jacket comfortable for the calves to wear. Elena Khandoshko, Dairy Manager of Sibirskaya Niva, observes, ‘Calf jackets are very important especially in Siberia. They keep the animals warm and protect them hypothermia channeling their energy to growth and development. Calves wear jackets from the time they

№ 58 February 2018 Announcements

21 February Seminar on forage harvester operation and adjustment for engineers and machine operators To download the electronic Venue: Iskra farming enterprise, Leninskaya Iskra version of the journal scan village, Kotelniky district, Kirov oblast the QR code Organiser: Kirov branch of EkoNiva-Tekhnika

27 February A discussion session for managers of farming enterprises ‘EkoNiva-tekhnika working strategy for 2018 and following years’ Venue: EkoNiva-Tekhnika service centre, Kirov branch Organiser: Kirov branch of EkoNiva-Tekhnika

14 March Seminar on John Deere forage harvesters for farm managers and farm specialists Venue: EkoNiva-Tekhnika service centre, Kirov branch Organiser: Kirov branch of EkoNiva-Tekhnika

March Tour of John Deere facility in Domodedovo Venue: South Gates Industrial Park, storage facility 104, Domodedovo, Moscow oblast Organiser: EkoNiva and John Deere

12-16 March Trip to JCB factory Venue: Rocester, Great Britain Organiser: JCB, EkoNivaTekhnika-Holding

17-25 March Trip to John Deere factory Venue: Catalao, Montenegro, Brazil Organiser: John Deere, EkoNiva

6 April Agrovyatka 2018 annual trade show Venue: trading grounds, 51, Prudnaya street, Kirov 12+ Organiser: Kirov Chamber of Commerce and Industry, government of Kirov oblast

/EkoNiva /EkoNivaCompany 17-25 March EkoNiva is inviting you to take part in the trip to John Deere /amn.milk factory in Brazil. Join our team!

EditorinChief: The journal «ЭкоНива-Вести/EkoNiva-News» is registered Translated by the International Projects Department Ms. Svetlana Ivanovna Weber by the Federal Service for Supervision in the Sphere of Com- of EkoNiva-APK Holding, LLC Address of the editorial office, munication and Mass Communications. Registered Certificate publisher: st for Mass Media ПИ № ФС77 - 34820 of 23 December 2008. Printed by VIP Publishing House LLC, 51 Mokovsky Publisher and founder of journal «ЭкоНива-Вести/ 79A Radishchev Street, 305004, Kursk, Signed for printing lane, 305007, Kursk EkoNiva-News»: IA EkoNiva-Media LLC tel. +7 (4712) 39 26 60 The circulation of the issue: 735 copies. Order № www.ekoniva-apk.ru According to the schedule: 02.03.2018 at 11 am, Distributed free of charge Registered office: [email protected] In fact: 02.03.2018 at 11 am. 79A Radishchev Street, 305004, Kursk Issue date: 12.03.2018 № 58 February 2018