Biden-Harris Administration makes available historic $3 billion for climate-smart practices

September 29, 2023 - The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making more than US$3 billion in funding available for agricultural producers and forest landowners nationwide to participate in voluntary conservation programs and adopt climate-smart practices in fiscal year 2024 as part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda. The announcement comes as the Biden-Harris Administration hosts the first-ever White House Climate Resilience Summit.

These funds are provided by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act - the largest climate and conservation investment in history. This law invests an additional US$19.5 billion for USDA's popular conservation programs. These programs also advance the President's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy and other federal investments reach disadvantaged communities that have been marginalised by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. On the heels of last week's announcement that USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) saw record producer interest in these resources in fiscal year 2023, the agency is now accepting applications from producers interested in this additional conservation assistance for fiscal year 2024.

"Thanks to President Biden's inflation Reduction Act, we have additional resources to invest in climate-smart practices as we continue to see high demand for these popular conservation programs," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "This funding will be used to meet producer demand for our oversubscribed programs and maximise climate benefits across the country while also providing other important environmental benefits. This includes investing in popular common-sense practices such as cover crops, waste and fertiliser management, and grazing practices, while continuing to work through existing programs to help producers address other natural resource challenges. Ultimately, this will lead to economic opportunity for producers, more productive soil, cleaner water and air, healthier wildlife habitat and natural resource conservation for future generations."

These additional investments are estimated to help hundreds of thousands of farmers and ranchers apply conservation to millions of acres of land. These funds provide direct climate mitigation benefits, advance a host of other environmental co-benefits, and expand access to financial and technical assistance for producers to advance conservation on their farm, ranch or forest land through practices like cover cropping, conservation tillage, wetland restoration, prescribed grazing, nutrient management, tree planting and more.

USDA is opening up the application period for fiscal year 2024 conservation assistance giving producers the opportunity to apply for this historic funding. However, in the event of a lapse in government funding, technical assistance, one-on-one help in answering questions, and other support for producers in navigating the application process would not be immediately available until the funding lapse ends. In the event of a funding lapse, NRCS would notify producers when staff are available to assist.

What's New

Expansion of Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Activities supported by the Inflation Reduction Act

NRCS is increasing climate-Smart Agricultural and Forestry Mitigation Activities eligible for Inflation Reduction Act funding for fiscal year 2024 through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). These in-demand activities are expected to deliver reductions in greenhouse gas emissions or increases in carbon sequestration as well as significant other benefits to natural resources like soil health, water quality, pollinator and wildlife habitat and air quality. In response to feedback received from conservation partners, producers and NRCS staff across the country, NRCS considering and evaluated activities based on scientific literature demonstrating expected climate change mitigation benefits.

When applied through this framework, these activities are expected to deliver reductions in greenhouse gas emissions or increase in carbon sequestration. NRCS will continue to evaluate additional practices as science progresses and will evaluate and identify quantification methodologies during the fiscal year.

Expansion of priorities for the ACEP investments through the Inflation Reduction Act

Additionally, NRCS is expanding the national priority areas eligible for Inflation Reduction Act funding for Agricultural Conservation Easements Program (ACEP) easements in fiscal year 2024. For ACEP Agricultural Land Easements (ALE), NRCS is prioritising securing:

• Grasslands in areas of highest risk for conversion to non-grassland uses to prevent the release of soil carbon stores.
• Agricultural lands under threat of conversion to non-agricultural uses.
• State-specific priories including rice cultivation on subsidising highly organic soils.
  
  For ACEP Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), NRCS is prioritising:

• Land with soils high in organic carbon.
• Eligible lands that will be restored to and managed as forests like bottomland hardwood forests.
• Eligible lands in existing forest cover that will be managed as forests.
• Several geographically specific priorities (ie former cranberry bogs, wet meadows, and ephemeral wetlands in grassland ecosystems).

Background

The Inflation Reduction Act provides funds to the EQIP, CSP, ACEP and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). For fiscal year 2024, which begins Oct 1, 2023, the Inflation Reduction Act provides an additional US$1.65 billion for EQIP, US$472 million for CSP, and US$189 million for ACEP, and US$754 million for RCPP.

How to Apply

NRCS accepts producer application for its conservation programs year-round, but producers interested in this cycle of Inflation reduction Act funding should apply as soon as possible. Producers interested in EQIP or CSP should apply by their state's ranking dates for consideration this year. Funding is provided through a competitive process and will include an opportunity to address the unmet demand from producers who have previously sought funding for climate-smart conservation activities.

Similarly, NRCS accepts applications year-round for ACEP Agricultural Land Easements (ACEP-ALE) and Wetland reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE), producer interested in his funding cycle must apply by Nov 13, 2023. NRCS will also consider previously unfunded applications in this round.

NRCS plans to roll out the next RCPP funding opportunity in late January 2024.

NRCS will announce other opportunities for agreements and partnerships at the state level for fiscal year 2024 in the coming months. The Inflation Reduction Act provides funding to support those strategic partnerships with local regional and national organisations. This will include outreach to undeserved producers to ensure Inflation Reduction Act climate funding is reaching those who have been previously unable to access conservation assistance.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

£12.5m for robotics and automation to boost sustainable farming

September 28, 2023 - Nineteen innovative projects developing automation and robotic technologies will receive a share of £12.5 million in government funding to boost productivity, food security and sustainable farming practices, the Farming Minister Mark Spencer has announced today. This brings the total government funding announced to fund industry-led research and development in agriculture and horticulture to £120 mullion since 2021.

The projects - funded through the Farming Futures Automation and Robotics competition - include developing a system to accurately predict and enhance quality of strawberry yields, reduce waste and optimise labour and harvesting schedules; a new system to digitally map and monitor vineyards using drones, robots and sensors; and a navigation system for field-based robotic vehicles to improve accuracy and reliability and enable safe navigation in farmyard and field operations. 

The funding comes through the Farming futures Automation and Robotics competition, which is part of Defra's £270 million Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) and is delivered by Innovate UK. The FIP has funded 17 competitions since opening in October 2021 which has already seen the development of new approaches to help farms be more sustainable and productive, from new ways to reduce or eliminate pesticide use through to projects to reduce emissions from livestock, and will help meet our commitment at the Farm to Fork Summit in Downing Street in May to continue to produce at least 60 percent of the food we eat here in the UK.

Speaking at the World Agri-Tech Summit in London, Farming Minister Mark Spencer said:

"Farmers are always forward-looking, and innovation is key to driving a resilient, productive and sustainable agriculture sector that puts food on our tables."

"The government stands firmly behind agri-tech innovation as the cornerstone of modern farming practices. By providing opportunities, funding and a supportive ecosystem within the sector, we aim to empower farmers, drive innovation and create a sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture across the UK."

Since 2021, the government has announced over £120 million to fund industry-led research and development in agriculture and horticulture, and the Farming Minister Mark Spencer reiterated this commitment to oversee the transformation of the UK into a world-leading agri-tech hub at the World Agri-tech Innovation Summit this week.

At the summit, the Farming Minister outlined the range of competitions under the Farming Innovation Programme that are supporting the sector to invest in new technology that will help grow their businesses, boost productivity and benefit the environment. This includes £10 million currently on offer through the third round of the Small R&D Partnerships competition to help businesses develop a new farming product and service and take it to commercialisation on the open market, and a further £4.5 million through the Feasibility Studies Competition to support businesses and researchers through the testing phase of an idea that will improve productivity, sustainability and resilience of farming.

In addition the Farming Investment Fund is investing in equipment, technology and infrastructure and the recently launched Investor Partnership competition combines government grant funding with private investment to help smaller agri-tech business to grow and scale.

Florian Richter, CEO of Muddy Machines LTD, said:

"Obtaining funding to research and develop such a key component of our technology is essential to our progression toward commercial operations."

"We count ourselves truly privileged to be located in the UK and be able to benefit from this level of government funding support."

Oli Hilbourne, CEO and Co-Founder at Outfield Technologies, said:

"The VISTA Project is a great example of the strength of UK innovation funding, bringing together technology companies, growers and academic partners to solve specific industry challenges."

"The UK's wine industry is growing rapidly, learning best practice from other wine growing regions. With VISTA, the UK wine industry has an opportunity to set the international standard and export our knowledge to the rest of the wine growing world. We are really excited to get started on the project and work with UK vineyards to drive productivity increases."

Dr Katrina Hayter, Challenge Director - Transforming Food Production Challenge at Innovate UK, said:

"Robotics and automation are crucial drivers in addressing the challenges posed by a growing global population and the need for sustainable practices in various sectors, including agriculture."

"By fostering innovation and research, we empower our farmers, growers, foresters and businesses to not only enhance productivity and economic growth but also to lead the way in sustainable particles. These projects are a testament to our commitment to improving environmental outcomes and reducing carbon emissions, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for our agricultural and horticultural communities."

Building on commitments at the Farm to Fork Summit at Downing Street earlier this year, the Farming Minister also pointed to opportunities such as the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act to unlock technologies to improve the productivity and resilience of crops, and support for farmers to attract investment and generate revenue through access to nature markets.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

USDA to begin issuing US$1.75 billion to agricultural producers

September 28, 2023 - The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it will begin issuing more than US$1.75 billion in emergency relief payments to eligible farmers and livestock producers. These much-needed payments are helping farming and ranching operations recover following natural distorters in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

"USDA provides substantial economic support for America's farmers and ranchers through its critical farm program payments. These payments are reflective of the incredible and cumulative financial hits brought on by devastating natural disasters that agricultural producers nationwide have endured while fulfilling their commitment to produce our food, fibre and fuel," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "This additional assistance helps offset the tremendous losses that these producers faced and is valuable investment, not only for farmers and ranchers but in the economic successes of our communities - rural and urban - and in our nation's food security for generations to come."

Emergency Livestock Relief Program

This week, FSA will issue more than US$581 million in 2021 and 2022 drought and wildfire emergency relief to eligible ranchers.

FSA is closing out the Emergency Livestock relief Program (ELRP) for losses suffered in 2021. ELRP Phase Two payments are estimated at US$115.7 million. Ranchers who lost grazing acres due to drought and wildfire and received assistance through ELRP Phase One will soon receive an additional payment through ELRP Phase Two. The second payment will be equal to 20 percent of the 2021 gross ELRP Phase One payment. ELRP Phase Two payments to producers will be automatic with no application required. In April 2022, FSA staff processed more than 100,000 payments through ELRP Phase One and paid eligible ranchers more than US$600 million for 2021 grazing losses.

In 2022, ranchers continued to experience significant loss of grazing acres due to drought and wildfire. To help mitigate these losses, eligible ranchers will receive ELRP disaster assistance payments for increases in supplemental feed costs. To expedite payments, determine producer eligibility and calculate the ELRP 2022 payment, FSA is using livestock inventories and drought affected forage acreage or restricted animal units and grazing days due to wildfire already reported to FSA by ranchers when they submitted their Livestock Forage Disaster Program applications. ELRP payments for 2022 losses are estimated at US$465.4 million and will be automatic with no application required.

Emergency Relief Program Phase Two

FSA is closing out Phase Two of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) this week through the delivery of more than US$1.17 billion in crop disaster assistance payments to procures of eligible crops who suffered losses, measured through decreases in revenue, due to qualifying natural disaster events that occurred in calendar years 2020 and 2021. ERP Phase Two was intended primarily for producers of crops that were not covered by federal crop insurance or FSA's Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP). Previously, through ERP Phase one, FSA staff processed more than 300,000 applications and paid an estimated 217,000 eligible producers more than US$7.4 billion.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Brabender presents modern measuring technology at iba 2023

September 28, 2023 - The world's leading manufacturer of measurement and process technology solutions for the laboratory sector is presenting several instrument innovations at iba 2023 in Hall B3, booth 444. The new measuring technology impresses not only with its modern design, but also with the latest technologies for precise, automated and thus time-saving measuring processes as well as maximum user-friendliness. 

The International Bakery Exhibition (iba) in Munich is the leading world trade fair for the bakery sector, confectionery industry and food retailing and has been attracting numerous trade visitors since 1949. From October 22 to 26, the trade fair opens its doors to interested parties from all over the world. Brabender will also be there as an exhibitor: "We are looking forward to the opportunity to make contacts and exchange idea. The iba is also the first trade fair at which we will appear together with our new parent company, the Anton Paar Group", says Dr Matthias Mayser, Head of the Food and Feed Application Laboratory at Brabender. In August of this year, the international measurement technology specialist Anton Paar had taken over the traditional German company Brabender.

Just in time for its 100th birthday this year. Brabender is presenting four new products exclusively at the trade show in Hail B3 at booth 444: The focus of the ten-device exhibition is on the new generations of the FarinoGraph, the ExtensoGraph and the GlutoPeak, as well as the Cubilyzer 300 - an optical measuring device for determining a volume and dimensional profile of baked goods.

In addition, visitors to the trade fair will also find proven solutions such as the Amylograph-E, the MT-CA moisture analyser or the Brabender ViscoQuick. For the first time at iba, the Litesizer DIA 500, a metrological solution from the Anton Paar Group, will be presented. With this dynamic image analyser, the size and shape of particles can be characterised easily and reliably by directly analysing the particle images.

Another highlight at the booth is the walk-in demo lab, where live samples are measured and visitors are introduced to the functionality and benefits of Brabender equipment. Finally, a laboratory automation system developed by Brabender offers a glimpse into the future.

FarinoGraph: One of the world's most important devices of its kind

Carl Wilhelm Brabender, founder of Brabender GmbH & Co KG, launched the first Farinograph back in 1928. 95 years later, Brabender presents the latest version of one of the world's most important and best-known devices for determining the water absorption capacity of flour and the rheological properties of doughs for quality control in accordance with international and national standards. Basically, the new FarinoGraph is suitable for all types of dough - whether gluten-free sponge dough, the flour or hard cookie dough.

In addition to the modern device design the FarinoGraph with numerous technical developments for precise and efficient measurements - with a focus on automated and time-saving processes. Artificial intelligence predicts the measurement curve based on previous measurements: "The function is called Brabender Prediction, which checks and calculates the evaluation points during the measurement and makes a prediction of the torque curve in real time. With the help of this live feedback, the measurement can be ended prematurely and the predicted values used instead", reveals Viktor Schäfer, Business Development Manager Software Solutions at Brabender.

The so-called auto-stop function ensures that the device stops after the measurement is complete, thus saving time: "Many customers plan a buffer time for the measurements so that the measurements are also complete. With the Auto-Stop function, this time is now eliminated as soon as all evaluation points have been reached", says Schäfer. The measuring kneader of the new FarinoGraph has a built-in sensor that measures the sample temperature of doughs. The optionally available ClimateLogger, which can be connected via Bluetooth, detects the ambient temperature, humidity and air pressure and transmits these values directly to Brabender MataBridge, the FarinoGraph's standard software.

More efficiency with 3-Phase System

With the determination of the water absorption of the flour and the kneading behaviour of the dough, the FarinoGraph forms the first stage of the proven 3-Phase System, which maps the production of bakery and pasta products on a laboratory scale in a holistic and practical way. In the second stage of the 3-Phase System, the ExtensoGraph determines processing properties and the gas retention capacity of the dough. The recorded extensogram can be used to determine reliable information on subsequent baking behaviour. For example, the influence of flour additives, such as enzymes or ascorbic acid, is determined.

Finally, the third stage follows with the Amylograph, which analyses the gelatinisation properties of starch as well as enzyme activity and baking properties of flour.

New ExtensoGraph as an all-in-one solution

The ExtensoGraph for measuring the elongation resistance and extensibility of doughs is also a novelty at the trade show: in addition to the proven all-in-one solution, the new version of the laboratory solution is now available as a modular system that combines three units and thus processes at once:

• ExtensoPrep: round and long working of the dough
• ExtensoFerm: Fermentation of the dough
• ExtensoBase: Stretching the dough

The ExtensoGraph as a compact device is more space-saving than its predecessor. It has an already built-in computer with touch screen and the well-known MetaBridge software.

The modular components can be used alternatively or as a supplement to the compact ExtensoGraph. For example, the ExtensoFerm as a capacity extension of the integrated fermentation chamber allows simultaneous fermentation of a higher quantity of dough samples. The use of two ExtensoBase components as a 'two-hook system' ensures faster and improved duplication of measurement results. Further advantages of the ExtensoGraph are integrated heating and automatic recording of fermentation room humidity as well as temperature. Optionally, the recording of room temperature and humidity is also possible here with the ClimateLogger.

GlutoPeak: Proven measurement principle paired with new functions

Another possible addition to the 3-Phase System is the GlutoPeak. This device measures the gluten quality of meal, flour, vital gluten, and baking mixes in a rapid procedure. This makes it suitable as a rapid method for determining the quality of incoming cereals. "With the new GlutoPeak, we have also opted for a compact design and integrated computer with touchscreen as well as MetaBridge software. The device's automatically lower able measuring head ensures a uniform lowering speed, thus eliminating the user's influence on the measurement result", emphasises Schäfer. In addition, the new GlutoPeak has integrated temperature control using Peltier elements. In addition to its proven measuring principles, the new version of the GlutoPeak is characterised by its compactness, which eliminates the need for external peripherals (computer, keyboard, thermostat). The MetaBridge and the included Rapid Flour Check, Rapid Gluten Check and Low Protein Check methods offer additional advantages in test evaluation.

Cubilyzer 300 creates digital models in 2D and 3D

The new Cubilyzer 300 precisely and reproducibly determines the volume of bakery products, such as bread, rolls, cakes, muffins and other foods in the solid state. The measurement is performed via optical inspection:

"Via two line lasers and two cameras in combination with a stepper motor control, a digital 2- and 3D model is generated from which the measurement results are derived", explains Viktor Schäfer. Thus, the device determines parameters such as volume and volume yield, density, bread length, width, height, cross-section, weight, colour and compares breads. Compared to the conventional rape displacement method according to Neumann/Doose, the Brabender Cubilyzer 300 offers a time-saving and significantly simplified measuring process without auxiliary equipment and with fast changeover and cleaning times.

Brabender is looking forward to numerous visitors after the long break due to the corona pandemic. In addition to the equipment demonstrations, the experts at the booth will be available to answer questions regarding the challenges in quality control of bakery raw materials as well as the development of new bakery products and recipes.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Realisation that ploughing destroys the natural seed bed pushes Fraser Bush to min-till, carbon farming, a new revenue stream and less time on the tractor

September 27, 2023 - A lightbulb moment in 2019 for Wiltshire-based tenant farmer Fraser Bush whilst ploughing, changed the way he farmed as he realised that bullying his soil with steel machinery was destroying his natural seedbed.

"The 'boys ground' of my farm had allowed me to move from ploughing to min-till, using a cultivator and a Horsch CO4 for our wheat and OSR, some years ago when our 'master ploughman' retired. I had continued to over winter plough for spring barley, peas and other spring crops, but had not taken the final step to direct drilling," explained Bush.

"In 2019 I was ploughing a field ready for spring barley, and I thought what am I doing? The ground is so easy to work, there is no need to spend hours on the tractor, using lots of diesel and disturbing the soil. I took the decision to start direct drilling with a Horsch Sprinter."

In the autumn of 2019, after harvesting forage maize Bush direct drilled wheat in one field with no cultivation whatsoever.

"Everyone thought I was mad and told me that I couldn't do it, farmers are often reluctant to change, but we had a cracking crop of wheat which made me start thinking about direct drilling everything for harvest 2021," continued Bush.

Bush farms approximately 513 ha of grass and arable on the Badminton Estate in the South Cotswolds with his father and uncle. Bush's two children in their late teens help wherever possible and their energy as well as young minds with modern views are invaluable.

Having moved to a more regenerative farming approach with min-till and cover crops, Bush was already well on the road to carbon farming and the ability to generate a new revenue stream from the sale of carbon certificates.

"I was aware of soil carbon programmes such as AgreenaCarbon and it seemed perfect sense to join the right one and be financially rewarded for our already environmentally-friendly farming practices. I understood that direct drilling would increase the potential revenue from carbon certificates," stated Bush.

Before taking the decision to join Agreena, Bush researched the carbon farming space by talking to neighbours, several agronomists, his fertiliser adviser, the NFU, read numerous articles and watched many YouTube videos.

Bush chose to work with Agreena and joined the AgreenaCarbon programme in time for harvest 2021.

"Agreena was one of the first soil carbon companies and had a high level of expertise and knowledge of the carbon farming marketplace," added Bush. "I liked what it wanted us to do so that we could fully benefit from its programme. With a few tweaks we could do just about everything we needed to."

Bush had to enter field data into Agreena's platform before the 2021 harvest. "From an admin perspective it's a bit of a hassle," Bush stated. "Once the initial data is there it is a question of being disciplined around recording and keeping track of what you do in each field. My wife helps me with the administration side and the children get involved with data input. My biggest issue is making sure that my father records what he has done! The older generation farmed very differently but in these modern times we have to look at farming through fresh eyes to make it work financially."

Entering data post-harvest to allow Agreena to calculate the carbon certificates per ha was easy for Bush. He already uses a farm management system and had much of the necessary data to hand.

"At the end of the season I work through the numbers and pull everything together and then send a pretty large data sheet to Agreena. Any errors can be corrected," said Bush.

Bush decided to sell his AgreenaCarbon 2021 harvest carbon certificates to Agreena resulting in an additional revenue of around £10K for that year.

A key Agreena differentiator is that it's 'farmers first' approach means that farmers have complete control over what they want to do with their carbon certificates: keep hold of them, sell them within the voluntary carbon market (VCM), let Agreena sell them on their behalf, or sell them to Agreena.

Regenerative farming practices have improved the Bush family's farm soil health, increased biodiversity and importantly in today's transitioning agricultural landscape to no BPS support, reduced input costs and provided an additional revenue from carbon farming.

Carbon certificates issued to Bush following harvest 2022 will generate an income of EU36 per certificate.

When asked how Bush planned to use this revenue, he answered that it will help to keep the farm 'alive'.

"The reduction in BPS payments, rising input costs, the potentially low yield and quality of grain as a result of the challenging harvest weather, all make for a depressing outlook," said Bush. "We have to evolve and look at maximising our margins by farming with modern practices and accessing other revenue streams."

"Some farmers will be looking at their figures and thinking oh my god there is nothing left. There can't be many farmers who would not welcome an additional revenue stream from carbon certificates."

For Bush an important benefit of carbon farming is that it has freed up time to focus on other areas.

"Not spending hours working the ground is an obvious advantage. Apart from spending more time with the family, I also have a fencing business," added Bush. "Fencing is often done on other farmers' land which is a valuable opportunity to talk to them about their farming practices and learn from them; hopefully, they can learn from me. You cannot overestimate how much we learn from talking to other farmers."

"Whenever I talk to farmers who are thinking about, or are already on the road to min-till or direct drilling, I tell them to look at carbon farming, the benefits it delivers and that they should waste no time in talking to Agreena to ensure they are signed up ready for harvest 2024. In my view, carbon farming is a no-brainer!" concluded Bush.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Nutrition Technologies launches Vitalis a liquid bio-fertiliser from insect frass

September 26, 2023 - Vitalis is a patent pending, 100 percent natural bioactive spray developed by Nutrition Technologies, derived from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) frass that has been fermented and enhanced with additional chitin and a microbial inoculant to create a highly effective plant protection product. The bacterial strain, Bacillus halotolerans was isolated from the BSF larvae itself, and has been shown to inhibit plant pathogens and improve plant drought tolerance. These components work together to enhance the plant’s natural defences against pathogenic microbes, and to create healthy, disease resistant foliage and root zone. VitalisTM can be used as a foliar spray or root drench on its own, or in combination with Diptia® bioactive fertiliser.

Nutrition Technologies has been working with BSF since 2015, and is the largest tropical producer of insect-based products in the world. Using Decomposition Ecology principles, we leverage natural systems to optimise the upcycling of nutrients - working with nature instead of against it. With a team of 20 plus scientists, and a dedicated microbiology laboratory we have rigorously tested our products internally and with third parties.

The Product Innovation

Vitalis is precisely formulated to prevent fungal disease, boost beneficial microbes and provide micronutrients to plants. Vitalis is derived from enriched Black Soldier Fly (BSF) frass, enhanced with a microbial inoculant and added insect chitin to provide highly effective protection for all kinds of plants. The bacteria, isolated from the larvae diestive system, is proven to inhibit plant pathogens by up to 96 percent, and the chitin comes from the exoskeleton of the mature larvae. This added chitin supports the growth of chitin-degrading bacteria in the liquid, particularly effective at destroying pathogenic fungus. These components work together to enhance the plant's natural defences against pathogenic microbes, and to create healthy, disease resistant soil around the plant root zone, protecting against fungal pathogens in the soil.

Conventional solutions and the need for innovation

Conventional disease control measures currently rely on fungicides and aggressive sanitisation such as burning the soil. For many fungal pathogens these methods are rarely effective, where they do work they are associated with damaged soils and provide the conditions for the development of fungicide-resistance strains. Vitalis enhances beneficial microbial activity in the soil, increasing nutrient availability and plant health. One bottle of Vitalis contains 12 billion beneficial bacteria and applying Vitalis is a quick way to improve microbial profile of soils. The microbial activity leads to increased nutrient absorption through bacteria such as phosphorus solubilising bacteria and can protect plants from fungal infections.

Multiple modes of action future-proof the performance

Insect frass is a nutrient source for plants in nature where their complex mechanisms benefit from frass. The bacteria in Vitalis including Bacillus halototerans, directly inhibit fungal pathogens and stop them from growing, and prevent spores from germinating. They do this using many methods, including the production of enzymes that cut open the fungal cell walls, and the use of Siderophores (molecules that bind to iron), which is needed by the fungi to grow. Limiting the availability of iron to the fungi inhibits its growth.

Tested in both laboratory and field settings

A trial was conducted by accoc Prof Dr Noor Baity Saidi from the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomelecular Sciences, University of Putra Malaysia (UPM), a plant pathologist and an expert in the fungal pathogen Fusarium sp. She is also a research associate at the Laboratory of Sustainable Agronomy and Crop Protection, Institute of Plantation Studies, UPM. In the trial the plants were infected with Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense tropical race 4 (FocTR4), and where the plants were treated with Diptia and Vitalis only 4 percent showed any disease symptoms (a 4 percent disease index score average) compared to 100 percent for the untreated control. The disease symptoms were reduced by 96 percent vs untreated plants.

Low energy, sustainable production system

Nutrition Technologies have developed a low-energy tropical production system that uses a unique combination of micro-organisms and Black Soldier Flies to bioconvert 60,000MT/year of organic by-products into value-added products for livestock and agriculture. As a tropical species, the Black Soldier Fly larvae grow quickly and efficiently in the ambient Malaysian climate, meaning that very little energy is required to grow or breed the flies. This low-energy model means that the company benefits from a very low cost of production, but with the same high standards as any European or North American manufacturer, and is able to pass-on those savings to the customer. This makes Nutrition Technologies' products some of the most competitively priced insect products in the world, without compromising on quality or safety. The company currently ships industrial volumes of material throughout Asia, North & South America and Europe, from the two hectare factory in southern Malaysia.

"This is the second of two plant health products we have launched this year" said Nick Pigott, Co-CEO, Nutrition Technologies. "Understanding how disease prevention using liquid products can effectively complement existing fertilisation programmes has helped us find a critical niche in industrial agriculture. Vitalis directly addresses two of the most economically dangerous plant pathogens in the world -Ganoderma in oil palms and Fusarium oxysporum in bananas. Both of these dieseases have the potential to wreak havoc on the global food supply chain if left unchecked, so the release of vitalis is a massive step forward in securing the future supply of these two staple crops."

The insect sector has gathered increasing attention over the past few years, with the global insect protein market alone estimated to be worth US$343 million in 2021, and expected to grow with a CAGR of 26.49 percent to reach US$1.3 billion by 2027. As a sustainable solution to help minimise multiple unsustainable practices, the sector as a whole has seen investments totalling nearly US$1 billion.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

FMC appoints new product manager for crop nutrition

September 25, 2023 - Leading agricultural sciences company, FMC, announces position change for crop nutrition expert, Chris Bond.

Mr Bond, who previously worked as a commercial technical manager for crop nutrition, has been promoted to product manager for the crop nutrition and plant health portfolio.

He joined FMC in 2018 after vast experience in the crop nutrition sector and has been FACTS qualified for several years.

In his new role, Mr Bond will work alongside the FMC commercial and technical teams in the UK and across Europe, helping with knowledge transfer, product planning and marketing.

"The variety of my new role is definitely a highlight, I'll be able to delve even deeper into the technical aspects of what is happening on-farm, spotting trends and provide the solutions to support this," he says.

"FMC is continuing to grow its already extensive product pipeline, so I'm looking forward to playing a key role in its development.

"Being a part of new product growth and looking at new ways of using them in the future, is a key motivator for me.

"Working with new colleagues throughout the business and sharing our ideas by transferring knowledge is also incredibly valuable to me and within this role it allows me to build on this," he says.

Mr Bond is FACTS qualified and has also recently completed the BASIS qualification to broaden his knowledge to help support his role and understand the challenges his customers are facing.

Geoffrey Bastard, Marketing and Plant Health Lead UK and Ireland at FMC, says the team is delighted to support Chris in his new role to bolster the company in such an exciting period of continued growth. 

"Chris is a valuable asset who will strengthen our team now and into the future," he says.

"He brings a level of technical knowledge and practical experience which will be incredibly valuable in driving FMC's product portfolio forward and build on the work he has already been a part of within the company."

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Orffa Belgium NV organises seminar for Flemish customers

September 25, 2023 - After a few years of absence due to COVID restrictions, Orffa Belgium NV was able to organise it's seminar again for Flemish customers, a well anticipated event.

Since the values of Orffa coincide very well with current challenges in the animal feed industry like, but not limited to: methane reduction, feed cost reduction, alternatives for antibiotics, reduction of ecological footprint, reduce energy costs during production, battle diseases through additives and improve worker's health, the time of this years seminar was 'one health'. They invited several experts in their field to shed some light on different aspects. Dr Ir Alfons Jansman, senior researcher at Wageningen Livestock Research, focused on how to reduce nitrogen excretion by adjustments to the feed of pigs and poultry. Shannon Groen, researcher at Delft Solids Solutions, shed some light on the different techniques available to test dustiness of feed additives and feeds. Next to that she highlighted solutions to improve dustiness in order to safeguard worker's health. Katrien D'hooghe, Managing Director of the Belgian Feed Association, gave some insight on the vast amount of topics that they are currently focusing on, to be a bridge between farmers and politics on all levels. Their 12 topics with goals to make the feed producing sector more sustainable by 2023, are very much in line with Orffa's focus points to maintain the Ecovadis Gold recognition in years to come.

Apart from external speakers, they also made use of their in-house knowledge by having two Central Technical Management members present on Orffa products in relation to one health and sustainability. Lein Vande Maele presented the importance of selenium, an essential trace element, in human health. Hereby the focus was put on the importance of a health daily intake but also the importance of consuming the correct form of selenium like present in our Excential, Selenium4000. Finally Aurélie Montagnon gave a presentation in presentation in perfect Dutch on the different products within Orffa portfolio that can be used to reduce feed cost (Excential Energy Plus) and improve worker's health (Excential Selenium4000 and Elovitals MIKU).

The presentations were followed by a lunch and networking opportunities for the approximately 50 attendees.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Hamlet Protein gold sponsor of Minnesota Nutrition Conference

September 25, 2023 - Hamlet Protein, global supplier of specialty ingredients for young animal nutrition, sponsored the highly regarded Minnesota Nutrition Conference. The two-day event focused on advancing sustainable production of beef, dairy, poultry and swine through research-based knowledge. A Hamlet Protein team attended the conference to exchange insights on the latest developments in animal nutrition with leading nutritionists and academics.

Nutritionist Megan Bible, Sales Manager Melissa Kirchner and Sales Manager Tim Maas. All from Hamlet Protein NCA.

The annual Minnesota Nutrition Conference celebrated its 84th anniversary and has over time become a reference event for the industry. The annual event is presented by the Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, and University of Minnesota Extension.

Hamlet Protein, headquartered in Denmark, has a production site in Findlay - Ohio, from where it services the North American market. With local technical- and commercial staff, the company has developed the market for vegetable protein specialties over the years and managed to obtain a leadership position in young animal nutrition.

"We are proud to be sponsoring the Minnesota Nutrition Conference, as their focus on providing insights in the latest research on animal nutrition aligns with our core values on knowledge sharing. We strongly believe that sharing insights, and truly listening to the challenges producers face in today's market, provides a platform for improvement. We do so in the field, and in conferences like these, and that is how we ultimately create value for our customers," commented Hamlet Protein VP Sales & Regional Director NCA Grady Fain.

Hamlet Protein produces soy-based protein ingredients for young piglets, poultry and cattle feed at two production plants in Denmark and the US. Hamlet Protein services customers around the world through a network of own sales offices and distributors.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

dsm-firmenich develop Single Cell Proteins

September 22, 2023 - dsm-firmenich has developed new, industry-leading, Single-Cell Proteins (SCPs) which have the capacity for the production of net-zero carbon protein to help meet demand and feed the global population within planetary boundaries.

SCP will ensure the sustainability of food systems by partially decoupling animal production from conventional inputs and associated challenges, eg, fertiliser use, deforestation and water while helping to fill the projected protein gap.

The use of SCPs as an animal feed ingredient is a game-changer that can reduce the land and water footprint required for animal farming and contribute to 1.5 degrees of global warming goals.

What is Single Cell Protein (SCP)?

• SCPs are in essence a protein production powerhouse produced by fermentation technology, these proteins have an incredible potential for scalability.
• With very high growth rates these organisms can produce a considerable amount of protein compared to their initial weight and are the frontrunner when it comes to emerging proteins.
• These naturally occurring microorganisms can convert platform molecules into proteins, perfectly suited to replace fishmeal, wheat gluten, guar meal, soy or pea protein concentrates and other plant proteins.

How are SCPs Produced?

• SCP provide a readily available, protein-rich microbial biomass, in the form of yeast, bacteria or fungi.
• This can be achieved by combining biotechnology with new bioscience to train and evolve microorganisms to become super protein producers and maximise the nutritional value of the non-protein part of the cell structures.

What are the Advantages?

SCPs contain all or most essential amino acids required by animals, and can be used for aquaculture, poultry, swine and companion animals for growth and development contain have numerous benefits, including:

• Shorter generation times.
• The ability to use different feedstocks or substrates.
• No requirements for land.
• The possibility to produce continuously throughout the year in any part of the world.
• No drop in animal performance when compared to traditional feeds.

Environmental benefits

• Alongside their incredible nutritional value, they are a low carbon-intensive microbial protein.
• SCPs can help close the impending protein demand gap without increasing the carbon footprint of our food system.
• It has the potential for net zero production carbon emissions and resource usage.

Salmon feeding trial results

Researchers at the DSM Bioscience Centre in Delft have shown excellent performance when compared to feeds containing fish meal and soy protein concentrate.

Rainbow trout were grown for 12 weeks on different inclusions of SCP ranging from 0%, 5%, 10% to 20% on extruded feeds, with single cell protein replacing a combination of fish meal and soy protein concentrate. The data indicates single cell protein inclusion has no negative impact on fish performance measured by final body weight.

Business opportunity

Net Zero single cell proteins are part of a US$4 billion animal feed alternative protein market that is expected to double in size within a decade. They represent an opportunity to provide nutrients that are essential to our food systems while making them considerably more sustainable.

dsm-firmenich

Dedicated to feeding a global population of over 10 billion by 2050, while remaining within planetary boundaries is a priority focus for dam-firmenich.

As such, animal protein production needs to become more efficient, use less land and reduce its environmental footprint. To meet this challenge, dam-firmenich has leveraged years of industry expertise to develop a carbon net zero Single-Cell Protein (SCP).

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Rumenco Ltd acquires Owens Nutrition Ltd

September 21, 2023 - Ruminant nutrition company Rumenco Ltd has announced its acquisition of Owens Nutrition Ltd on September 21, 2023.

Based in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, the purchase is aligned with the retirement of Andrew Owens. Over 25 years the family business has developed a reputation for the manufacture, supply and service of molassed buckets, together with the distribution of high quality calf and lamb milk powders.

Chairman of Rumenco, Dr Frank Heap, is pleased to confirm that Andrew Owens will remain in the company to oversee the transition into next year. The highly regarded molassed buckets and milk powders will remain unchanged, and Clwyd Davies and Simon Leversha will continue to market them as they have successfully done over the years.

A leader in beef, dairy and sheep nutrition for 70 years, Rumenco manufactures products for livestock farmers to maximise animal performance from home-grown feeds and forage 365 days of the year. Rumenco specialises in feed blocks, molassed feed, mineral and low moisture buckets, together with a range of minerals and liquid feeds.

"Owens Nutrition is complementary to Rumenco and will allow us to extend our work in providing livestock producers with innovative products, strongly supported by research and a technical team, for multiple areas of livestock production,"concludes Dr Heap.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

SPACE 2023: At the heart of the global food challenge

September 20, 2023 - The 37th edition of SPACE was held from Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 September at the Rennes Exhibition Centre, featuring 1207 exhibitors. Among them, 241 were exhibiting at SPACE for the first time and 365 were international companies from 39 different countries. These exhibitors welcomed 90,771 visitors, including 12,125 international visitors from 122 countries. Overall, these figures reflect a 23 percent increase in the number of international visitors, as well as a record number of countries represented.

The three-day exhibition, which took place in a warm and positive atmosphere, reflects the healthy economic situation of the farming industry, but also its concerns regarding the future, as production volumes for beed, milk, pork and poultry are falling. At the same time, consumer demand for quality food at affordable prices has never been higher. The tree days of intense activity were therefore more necessary than ever for all these involved in the dynamics of animal farming, to allow them to address these issues, to alert political leaders to this unprecedented situation and to reflect together on solutions for the future. Once again, SPACE exercised its role to the full as a high-quality event that is vital for the future of animal farming. As the geopolitical context becomes increasingly unstable, it is essential that we do not develop a tendency to depend on third countries to fill our plates.

Energy as a major theme

This edition was also dedicated to energy. This central theme of SPACE was explored in numerous discussions, conferences and debates. It was the focus of the Espace for the Future organised by the Chambers of Agriculture. This area, which was redesigned for this year's edition, provided SPACE visitors with all the necessary information to help them reduce their energy bulls and diversify their activities around the opportunities offered by this market. Photovoltaics, wind power, mechanisation, biomass... there are so many avenues to explore and keeping informed is essential to maintain a profitable balance with the farm's main production. At a time when strategic decisions need to be taken to meet the dual challenge of energy and food sovereignty, SPACE was a key opportunity to prepare for the future in this area. The new Experts' Area within the Espace for the Future provided animal farmers with very practical and useful information on subjects such as fuel consumption, hydrogen, reducing energy consumption in buildings, the law on renewable energies, etc.

Innov'Space

Innovation is one of the hallmarks of SPACE, and exhibitors' enthusiasm for the Innov'SPACE label remains undiminished. A total of 118 applications were submitted, and were rigorously examined by a jury of over 50 members. 37 companies were awarded one or two stars depending on the degree of interest for the farmer or end user. Four winners received the special three-star distinction: Kverneland Group France's Pudama, which applies fertiliser to each individual seed; Leretrif Rossard Bâtiment's Watt'N'Wall, which consists of prefabricated walls for pigsties equipped with a hydraulic network to heat part of the space; and finally Mastaplex's Mastatest and Foetus's Vetscan MastiGram+, both of which diagnose mastitis quickly, so the animals affected can be treated more efficiently.

The World of Animal Farming, a record number of countries attended

SPACE attracted an unprecedented number of international visitors, with 122 countries represented by the 12,125 visitors who came to Brittany looking for solutions to help them develop or improve their farms. The many delegations from Africa (Benin, Cameroon, Côte d'lvoire, DRC, Senegal, Togo, etc) confirmed their growing interest in the solutions presented at SPACE to help them achieve food sovereignty. BPI's official participation alongside them encourages companies to open up and develop their business in these new markets. Top buyers, invited to SPACE as part of Business France's 'Export Begins in France' programme, were fascinated by the diversity and quality of the products and services offered by SPACE exhibitors. These investors and leading companies in their own countries, came from Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Romania, Tunisia and Turkey to find new technologies in the fields of hygiene, health, genetics and breeding equipment at the Exhibition.

The European Association of Agricultural Journalists (ENAJ) also took part in this year's edition and held its Annual General Meeting there.

Once again this year, the World of Animal Farming played to its full potential in Rennes, despite many professionals being unable to come due to visa refusals. This year saw an even greater number of such cases. A large number of applications were refused, particularly in India, Algeria, West Africa, etc, which has a significant impact on potential or existing business flows between France and the rest of the world.

The Youth Forum and the Tech'Agri Challenge

Once again this year, SPACE focused its attention on young people, highlighting the value of animal farming trades in order to further boost their attractiveness. The Youth Forum welcomed around a hundred students each day to discuss their concerns: the path to setting up a business time devoted to holidays, income, the ability to maintain agriculture-related employment, internships, etc. A wall displaying job and internship offers, as well as a job dating event, also provided young visitors with concrete opportunities to build their future.

The first Tech'Agri Challenge by Innov'Space was organised this year. HND and engineering students from the agricultural and digital sectors reflected on and developed technical solutions to issues encounter by farmers (digital identification cards for cattle, automated headlocks for remote opening, etc).

This new project, initiated by Bretagne Développement Innovation and Innozh and supported by SPACE, was a great success and demonstrated the skills of the new generation in coming up with innovative and practical solutions to improve working conditions for farmers.

The closing ceremony, organised for the first time by the Young Farmers of Brittany, was another great opportunity to bring together its members to enjoy a convivial evening.

Conferences

SPACE continues to offer its participants knowledge-rich content in the hundred or so conferences included in its programme. Together, these presentations are what makes SPACE a unique platform for the development and progress of the animal farming industry. This dimension was confirmed once again this year.

The genetic showcase

SPACE is a unique showcase for dairy and suckler breed presentations and competitions. 500 cattle from 13 different breeds provided a continuous spectacle in the main ring during the three-day Exhibition. 

This year’s edition of the Genetics Show featured two major events: the National Charolais Breed Competition and the European Simmental Breed Challenge. Ten other inter-regional competitions and genetic presentations complemented the programme. The “Meat Excellence” beef cattle auction, dedicated entirely to suckler breeds, and the inter-breed “Genomic Elite Auction”, a unique event in Europe, dedicated to dairy and mixed breeds, were a great success. SPACE also featured a large number of sheep, with 120 animals from 10 different breeds. Competitions and the Sheep Olympics were held throughout the day, with 136 young learners taking part.

For the second year running, the 32,000 litres of milk collected at SPACE will be donated to the Food Banks via SOLAAL, whose 10th anniversary we celebrated.

SPACE 2023: a political highlight for animal farming

SPACE’s key role in the start of the new agricultural policy season was further accentuated this year with the launch of the Exhibition by the French Minister for Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Marc FESNEAU, the visit of Denise BAUER, Ambassador of the United States, the conference on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) by Véronique DREZET-HUMET, Head of Representation of the European Commission in France, followed by her tour of the Exhibition stands, and the meeting of the Agricultural Commission for the French Regions meeting chaired by Loïg CHESNAIS-GIRARD, President of the Brittany Region, who addressed young people with the following message: “Tomorrow you will be at the heart of Europe’s food strategy”. Ms Arooj MEHWISH RIZVI, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Embassy of Pakistan in France, also met a number of people involved in cattle farming on behalf of her country, which is the world's fourth-largest dairy producer.

The 37th edition of SPACE, with its abundance of opportunities to meet and share ideas, its highly committed exhibitors, its dynamic and enthusiastic visitors all keen to maintain and develop animal farming in our regions and around the world, was a fantastic platform for all these players to find the keys to feeding the world's 10 billion people in the next 30 years, in an increasingly carbon-free economy.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Attendees win by a mile in Louisville at AFIA Liquid Feed Symposium

September 20, 2023 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) held its 52nd annual Liquid Feed Symposium (LFS) last week in Louisville, Ky, where over 170 attendees gathered to hear the latest ingredient, weather and market forecasts and discuss the ways this unique industry segment factors into cattle producers' sustainability objectives.

"AFIA's Liquid Feed Symposium was second to none! Attendees enjoyed three, action-packed days of AFIA and Louisville hospitality and discovered opportunities in the areas of nutrition, sustainability and regulatory compliance," said Paul Davis, PhD, AFIA's director of quality, animal food safety and education. "Additionally, industry experts were on hand to share their latest thoughts on ingredient availability, weather outlook, cattle markets and employee retention. Plus, the liquid feed folks are generous and know how to have fun!"

LFS attendees heard from several speakers on myriad topics, including: interrelationships among the microbial metabolites of a molasses-based liquid supplement, gut health and growth of grain-finished feedlot cattle; effects of replacing soybean hulls with molasses during the receiving period of feedlot calves; branding and marketing sustainability; product placement in Yellowstone; what the US dairy industry's 2050 environmental stewardship goals and the net zero initiatives mean to feed producers and practicing nutritionists; best practices for advocating for agriculture; and the relationship between carbon and cattle. Apart from the educational sessions, the AFIA held a networking event at Churchill Downs.

During the conference, the AFIA and Feedstufffs recognised Westway Feed Products' Houston, Texas, manufacturing facility as the 2023 Liquid Feed Facility of the Year. The AFIA also inducted J Randy Davis into the Liquid Feed Hall of Fame and awarded Wes Klett as an AFIA Member of the Year. The AFIA Liquid Feed Committee also hosted a live auction, which raised a record of over US$32,260 to support the Kenny Berg Research and Education Fund. The fund, which is managed by the institute for Feed Education and Research, supports liquid feed research projects conducted by agricultural universities.

The AFIA thanks gold sponsors: Anipro/Xtraformance Nutrition, Huvepharma, Quality Liquid Feeds and Westway Feed Products; silver sponsors: DPI Global, Global Animal Products, Feed Strategy, NuTech Biosciences and Sunnyside Feeds; as well as bronze sponsors: Adisseo, Amalgamated Sugar, Buffalo Molasses, Cerne Calcium Company, ED&F Man Liquid Products, Double S Liquid Feed, FMF Specialty Agri Products, MGM Marketing, Midwest Agri-Commodities, Nutrien, PerforMmix Nutrition Systems, Prinova, Provitas and Zinpro.

The 2024 AFIA Liquid Feed Symposium will take place Sept 10-12 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

For more information, visit HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Harvest maize with care to reduce pollution and flooding risks

September 19, 2023 - A wetter than usual summer means there is a risk maize crops will not mature until late autumn in some areas, leading to a late harvest when soils are wet due to seasonal (autumnal) rainfall.

Traitors and loaded trailers can cause soil compaction when harvesting in these conditions, potentially leading to an increase in run off which could result in local flooding and pollution of nearby watercourses.

The Environment Agency is calling on farmers to loosen the soil after harvest if compaction has occurred. Attention should be paid to compacted headlands and wheel ruts acting as pathways for runoff.

Devon and Cornwall project manager James Wimpress said: "Harvesting later than 1 October can be risky as soils may be soft following rainfall and prone to compaction. This can lead to increased runoff over the winter.

"We recognise that there has been great improvement with managing maize in recent years, including cover cropping and managing compaction, but we would encourage farmers to be vigilant with late harvests, particularly if the weather is wet".

The Environment Agency is also recommending Devon and Cornwall farmers consider growing other types of crops instead of maize in future due to the likelihood of climate change leading to more extreme weather.

James added: "In some areas it may be better not to grow maize in the first place because the soil and location are at very high risk of runoff during bad weather, causing localised flooding and pollution.

"These areas include steep slopes on sandy soils that are vulnerable to soil loss and erosion during heavy rainfall, and wet clay soils with poor drainage where it is difficult to harvest maize without causing serious compaction and damage to the soil."

High-risk crops, grown in high-risk locations, increase the likelihood of pollution incidents from soil erosion and run-off. The Environment Agency will take enforcement action if it finds that reasonable precautions to prevent pollution, which include the choice of crop and associated agricultural practice, have not been taken.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Remove barriers for young people to access farming, say agriculture MEPs

September 19, 2023 - Supporting young people to removing barriers to access farming is key for the future of agriculture, says Agriculture and rural Development Committee in a new report adopted on Tuesday.

The draft resolution on the Generational renewal in the EU farms of the future, adopted by the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development on Tuesday by 43 votes for, 0 votes against and 1 abstention, stresses that rural areas, EU food security, and the future of agriculture is dependent on generational renewal. MEPs, led by rapporteur Isabel Carvalhais, therefore call for public policies creating fair and dignified income and a quality of life for farmers and their families as preconditioned for attracting young farmers to agriculture.

Access to land, financing and support

MEPs identify the price and availability of land, difficult access to credit and to support measures as well as administrative requirements as some of the main barriers to becoming a farmer.

They therefore propose to adopt an EU legislation to improve the functioning of national farmland markets and address land concentration. An EU observatory on farmland to monitor trends and prices for land sale and rental should be establish in order to ensure greater transparency of land transactions in the EU. Member States should promote land access for young farmers by for example pre-emptive rights, price controls on sales and rental or long-term usage guarantees.

Young farmers should be also offered lower interest rates and support the first loan instalment as well as advisory for their better financial literacy, say MEPs.

The report calls for national strategies to promote generational change included financial support for land transfers and pension protection. EU countries should also create a position of a farm succession facilitator that can provide guidance during farm transfers from one generation to the next.

To design policies in line with the needs of young farmers, MEPs propose that the Commission assesses young farmers needs in the impact assessment of new policies.

Training and internet in rural areas

MEPs highlight that young farmers are better equipped to seize the opportunities presented by the green and digital transitions as they are more likely to apply new technologies and implement sustainable farming practices amongst others. The adopted report therefore stresses the need to provide young farmers will access to reliable internet as well as training on digital skills, business planning or innovative practices.

Next steps

The draft resolution will be put to a plenary vote, possibly during the 16-19 October session.

Background

Demographic decline is more pronounced in rural populations and farmers than in other parts of society. In 2020, almost 58 percent of farm managers were at least 55 years old. Young farmers are two to three times more likely to have their loan application rejected.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Conclusion of Agri-Food Trade Mission to West Africa

September 18, 2023 - The Agri-Food Trade Mission led by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, last week, focused on developing trade and economic relationships between Ireland and the West African region.

With engagements in both Nigeria and Senegal at Government-to-Government level, the Trade Mission identified opportunities to collaborate with UN Agencies whom Ireland partners with in addressing food security and humanitarian needs in the region, while supporting the development of sustainable food systems.

The visit also included a range of engagements aimed at promoting Irish agri-food, seafood, and beverages, in a region where demand for affordable high-quality products - which Ireland is renowned for - is increasing. 

The Minister concluded the Nigeria leg of the Trade Mission by hosting an Enterprise Ireland Agri-Innovation event in Lagos with leading businesses in the agri-food sector and by launching the Board Bia 'Spirits of Ireland' campaign in the market.

Speaking on his return to Ireland, Minister McConalogue stated:

"I am delighted to have visited West Africa this week deepening the relationship with the region both politically and economically. There is immense potential for our dynamic agri-food sector to collaborate further with partners in the region. Such partnerships will support mutual benefits, as we share the common aim of improving the contribution of the agri food sector to our national economies. This Trade Mission has strongly confirmed this significant potential."

Board Bia CEO, Jim O'Toole said:

"This has been a successful Trade Mission spanning three cities and two countries over five days. Board Bia clients met with over 300 trade targets demonstrating the current value and significant potential of the West Africa market. This marks a new phase of engagement for Board Bia's West Africa team, and I look forward to the follow up in the weeks ahead."

The Trade Mission concluded on Friday in Senegal where senior officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, together with Bord Bia and Ireland's new Embassy in Dakar, engaged with Senegalese Ministries of Agriculture, Rural Development and Animal Husbandry and regional Directors of UN Agencies including the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). There were also a number of trade meetings and Bord Bia hosted a large agri-food business networking event for Irish and Senegalese companies, supported by the Irish Embassy in Dakar.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Strengthening Local Meat Economies Act promotes fairness in procurement

September 18, 2023 - Last Wednesday, Senator John Fetterman introduced the Strengthening Local Meat Economies Act (SLMEA). The Strengthening Local Meat Economies Act is a bill designed to support independent small and very small processors by promoting fairness in US Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat procurement and reinvesting in local meat markets.

This bill is more necessary than ever, as earlier this year reporting surfaced that the market share of JBS-USA (a global food and meatpacking company) and other major packers has made it impossible for USDA to consider breaking ties with them. With JBS' business ethics under question both at home in the US and abroad, taxpayer dollars should not be spent on contracts with such companies when there are more responsible alternatives available.

"USDA has the opportunity to infuse rural meat economies with hundreds of millions of dollars in new demand that will support local meat processors and independent ranchers," stated Aaron Jonson, Program Manager, Challenging Corporate Power Program at Rural Advancement Foundation International, RAFI-USA.

SLMEA would give USDA the tools to reinvest in and strengthen local economies and expand USDA's options beyond the largest corporate meatpackers as it procures poultry and meat products for a variety of food assistance programs. In doing so, SLMEA also creates opportunities for small and mid-scale, local armers and ranchers who raise their animals in more sustainable ways by making it more possible for them to participate in federal procurement.

"Taken together, Strengthening Local Meat Economies Act and Strengthening Local Processing Act - introduced earlier this year - provide Congress with the tools it needs to sustain and build on the Administration's efforts to promote competition in agricultural markets," said Connor Kippe, NSAC Policy Specialist.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.