Farm Tech - Farmers Guide https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/ The UK’s Leading FREE Monthly Farming Magazine Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:41:49 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/fa-icon-150x150.png Farm Tech - Farmers Guide https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/ 32 32 Fixing rural connectivity is key to unlocking full potential of British farming https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/fixing-rural-connectivity-is-key-to-unlocking-full-potential-of-british-farming/ Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:37:00 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=110637 The latest NFU Digital Access Survey reveals that broadband and mobile coverage in rural areas continues to lag behind the needs of British farming businesses — with more than one in five respondents reporting they cannot access even a ‘decent’ internet speed.

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NFU Digital Access Survey reveals that broadband and mobile coverage in rural areas continues to lag behind needs of British farming businesses.
Stock photo.

The survey found out that 21% of respondents have broadband speeds under 10Mbps – compared to the national average of less than 1%.

Only 22% report a reliable mobile signal across their entire farm, and nearly one out of ten respondents have no 4G or 5G access.

Just 33% of respondents have access to fibre broadband, which is significantly below the UK average of 57%.

Nearly all respondents said mobile signal (98%) and broadband (91%) are important for their business.

Major change is coming

These figures come amid government delays to key rural connectivity targets. The deadline for gigabit-capable broadband and nationwide 5G coverage has been pushed back from 2030 to 2032, and while the Shared Rural Network remains on track for completion by the end of 2025, full rollout and operator compliance are not expected until 2027.

The NFU now warns that these substantial waits risk leaving farming families and rural communities cut off from vital services, especially as the government moves ahead with plans to switch all landlines to digital by 2027 – a major change that relies on strong broadband and mobile infrastructure.

There are some signs of progress: ultrafast broadband access is rising, now reaching 12% of respondents, and more farmers are embracing agri-tech tools such as cloud-based services and GPS, the union said.

The NFU is calling on the government to:

  • Prioritise completing the Shared Rural Network to ensure all rural communities get a reliable mobile signal while the fibre rollout continues.
  • Support all broadband technologies – not just fibre – to bring cost-effective alternatives like fixed wireless or mobile broadband to rural and hard-to-reach areas.
  • Provide rural-specific digital skills training within national programmes.

Essential, not optional

NFU vice president Rachel Hallos
NFU vice president Rachel Hallos.

NFU vice president Rachel Hallos said: “We have been consistently told by government that food security is national security, but to deliver on that, farmers need the right tools.

“Reliable broadband and mobile coverage are not optional – they are essential for running efficient, productive farming businesses and ensuring safety in some of the most isolated parts of the country. If a farmer can’t call for help in an emergency, the consequences can be serious.”

Ms Hallos added that poor connectivity is holding back the full potential of British farming.

“We welcome the government’s investment announced in the spending review, but these delays risk leaving rural farms disconnected for longer.

“This isn’t about asking for special treatment. It’s about fairness. Rural businesses, families and communities deserve the same opportunities as everyone else – and that starts with being properly connected,” she concluded.

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Scotland backs virtual fencing in new grant scheme https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/scotland-backs-virtual-fencing-in-new-grant-scheme/ Tue, 15 Jul 2025 14:47:40 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=110240 Nofence has welcomed the Scottish Government’s launch of the Future Farming Infrastructure Scheme (FFIS), which recognises virtual fencing as an eligible capital item.

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Nofence is particularly pleased to see virtual fencing recognised as an eligible capital item for FFIS.

The FFIS arrives at a pivotal moment for the agricultural sector as it transitions towards more sustainable and efficient practices.

The scheme offers farmers and crofters up to 100% funding for capital investments to support environmental efficiency and climate-related outcomes.

Nofence is particularly pleased to see virtual fencing recognised as an eligible capital item, broadening access to a technology that is already transforming how livestock are managed across the UK.

This marks another positive step by the Scottish Government in creating opportunities for virtual fencing adoption, following its earlier inclusion in the Crofting Agricultural Grants Scheme (CAGS).

Efficient livestock management

Nofence virtual fencing offers an innovative solution that works through a GPS-enabled collar that is connected to an easy-to-use mobile app via cellular network, allowing farmers to set and adjust virtual boundaries, the company explains.

This system enables farmers to precisely control grazing practices without the challenge of physical barriers – a scalable and adaptable system effective for both farmers and crofters.

By removing labour-intensive tasks, virtual fencing provides greater flexibility and oversight, freeing up valuable time to focus on other farm activities as well as supporting a more balanced and sustainable work-life routine.

For Rory Fyfe, who leads the Rewilding Kinkell Project and manages Kinkell Byre, an integrated farm wedding venue near St Andrews, Nofence virtual fencing technology has opened up new possibilities – not just for farming, but for community, ecology, and education.

He says: “The collars have worked very well for us. They make it easy to manage the cows and move them around, which is crucial in such a complex landscape with cliffs, paths, and public access. And the public can now see where the cows are through an online access tool, which has been great for local walkers and visitors.”

Nofence has long believed that technology that benefits nature is pivotal to the future of farming.

A more inclusive path to farming

Virtual fencing is not only changing how livestock are managed but also opens access to ecologically valuable landscapes that would ordinarily be impossible to fence.

Areas like steep slopes, coastal paths, woodlands, and conservation sites hold huge potential for biodiversity gain when managed through virtual fencing.

Often, livestock grazing is labour-intensive and time-consuming, but these tasks are now simplified by virtual fencing, enabling farmers to graze more land efficiently.

The Rewilding Kinkell Project is a prime example of this in action. By integrating conservation grazing with a wedding venue, the project not only operates productively but also delivers significant environmental benefits.

Mr Fyfe explains: “It’s a big collaboration to graze this area for the benefit of biodiversity, and we’ve been using Nofence collars with great success.”

Nofence has long believed that technology that benefits nature is pivotal to the future of farming, and virtual fencing is playing a key role in shaping this future –  one that delivers for farm businesses, improves environmental outcomes, and enhances the well-being of farmers themselves and the animals they care for.

The FFIS represents a major step by the Scottish Government to support farmers in making confident, forward-looking investments in farming.

The application window for the scheme will open on 14th July 2025 and close on 22nd August 2025, with full guidance and application details available on the Scottish Government’s Rural Payments and Services website.

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Thinking outside the box: Vertical farming, insects and DIY biologicals https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/diversification/thinking-outside-the-box-vertical-farming-insects-and-diy-biologicals/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:47:29 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=109012 Expert speakers recently discussed how British farmers can benefit from CEA, insect farming and making their own biologicals. Sarah Kidby reports.

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vertical farming

Whilst there are lots of headlines around vertical farming, there are many other examples of controlled environment agriculture (CEA) – with a spectrum ranging from lower-tech, less costly options such as soil-based polytunnels, all the way up to artificial light and vertical farming.

In between, there are almost infinite options, said Mark Horler, founder and chairman of UK Urban AgriTech, speaking at a recent Agri-TechE webinar.

Choosing the appropriate level of technology for your farm, and thinking about how it fits with your existing business is key, he emphasised, also noting that CEA doesn’t have to be seed to sale.

For example, you could use vertical farming for propagation, then send the plant to a glasshouse or polytunnel to achieve a faster or more consistent crop. 

Knowing your market is also essential for success, he added. Whether it’s supplying edible flowers to the Michelin-star restaurant down the road, or selling lettuce in a farm shop, you need the appropriate technology for your venture, and make sure the market it there.

CEA tends to focus on salad crops and soft fruits but the number of crops can be almost unlimited, Mr Horler continued.

For example, a project with Surrey University is looking to speed up willow production in a glasshouse/polytunnel environment. Plant-based proteins and medicinal crops offer good margins if you can find the market in your area. 

CEA: What to consider

There is lots to consider though, with energy, labour and capital cost being the biggest challenges, he added. You should consider ways to take out some of the energy costs, and design it in from the beginning, as retrofitting will be very difficult.

Meanwhile, think about the labour you’ll need and plan for it – not just for growing and picking the crop but packing and logistics too.

When it comes to capital cost, the higher up the tech spectrum you go, the higher the cost will be – if a polytunnel with simple A-frame hydroponics works for you, don’t spend money you don’t need to, he added.

Other key considerations are: do you have somewhere suitable to locate it, with sufficient power? Is it environmentally sound? Can it be profitable?

Finally, Mr Horler advised working with institutions who can help with the adoption to take some of the risk away, and some funding is also available.

READ MORE: Embrace farm diversification and improve farm profitability
READ MORE: Northamptonshire farm diversifies to put spotlight on endangered species

Insect farming

It’s estimated that the amount of food waste needing treatment in the UK will double by 2030, with the Simpler Recycling Scheme meaning that by the end of 2028, organic waste will no longer be sent to landfill.

The Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association estimates that the capacity for organic waste treatment will fall short by 1.4 million tonnes by 2030.

With this in mind, Larry Kotch, CEO of Flybox, discussed how vertical farming of invertebrates could offer a solution to this problem, whilst creating an additional revenue stream.

Black soldier flies are the best insect for waste management and will eat a wide variety of things – such as fruit and vegetable waste, breads, grain husks, eggs and dairy waste, he explained.

There are some regulatory limits in the UK and insects will not eat anything cellulose-based. 

Explaining the process, he said feedstock is put into trays in a controlled environment such as the units supplied by Flybox, and five-day-old seedlings are placed on top, getting through the waste in a matter of days. What is left is a 3-3-3 biofertiliser which is also a biopesticide.

Grown larvae is then sieved from the frass, which can be self-pasteurised or pasteurised in a self-composting process and sold. 

Key end markets for the larvae produced are pet food and aqua, while there are also good margins for frass in the organic fertiliser world.

Mr Kotch concluded: “We’re still lighting our waste on fire; we want to match increasing expectations of regulators and consumers to do more with waste in a profitable way.”

DIY biologicals

Joanne Neary, senior technical lead at the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) noted that biologicals are a growing market due to the increasing trend for sustainable farming practices, as well as rising pest resistance. 

On-farm production of biologicals, for on-farm use only, is unregulated – but these cannot be sold to third parties, she said. Bacteria and fungi are the easiest to grow in this context and it’s usually barrel fermented, unlike the aseptic stainless-steel bioreactors used in commercial production.

Additionally, shelf life will be days to weeks with a farm-produced biological, with high levels of contamination likely, so they are for immediate use.

Whilst you might not get exactly what you want in terms of the development or morphology of the cell, they are cheap compared to buying commercial products for small family farms, Joanne concluded. 

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Breeding technologies: Shaping UK herds https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/livestock/dairy-beef/breeding-technologies-shaping-uk-herds/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=109184 A new era of advanced breeding technologies is adding significant value to livestock operations. Paragon Vets explains the options.

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Farmers have long relied on a combination of natural service and artificial insemination (AI) to maintain and improve their herds. 

Successful reproduction is the bedrock of any profitable cattle enterprise, whether it’s a dairy unit striving for high milk yields or a beef suckler herd aiming for strong, fast-growing calves.

In the UK, farmers have long relied on a combination of natural service and artificial insemination (AI) to maintain and improve their herds. 

However, a new era of advanced reproductive technologies is increasingly offering producers powerful tools to accelerate genetic progress, enhance efficiency, and add significant value to their operations. 

While traditional methods remain prevalent, the drive for continuous improvement in traits like milk production, growth rate, feed efficiency, and disease resistance is leading many UK farmers to explore more sophisticated options. This is where multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and embryo transfer (ET) come into their own.

MOET

At its core, MOET involves collecting embryos from a genetically superior female (the donor) and transferring them into the reproductive tract of a recipient female who will carry the pregnancy to term.

This immediately allows a valuable cow to produce far more offspring in her lifetime than she could through natural calving. Instead of one calf per year (or slightly more with good fertility management), a donor cow can produce multiple embryos following a single ‘flush’. 

The process typically begins with hormonal treatment of the donor cow to induce superovulation, meaning she releases multiple eggs during a single oestrus cycle instead of just one or two.

Following insemination (usually with semen from a high-merit bull), these embryos are allowed to develop for about a week in the donor’s uterus before being non-surgically flushed out.

These collected embryos are then assessed, graded, and either transferred fresh into synchronised recipient cows or frozen for later use or sale.

The added value of conventional MOET is clear: accelerated genetic gain by getting multiple progeny from elite cows and bulls in a shorter timeframe; increased offspring from valuable animals multiplying their impact on the herd’s future and flexibility because frozen embryos allow for transfers when recipient animals are available or for the sale of valuable genetics.

Embryo transfer can also be a valuable tool in managing certain diseases within a herd, as embryos can be collected from infected but genetically valuable animals and transferred into disease-free recipients, producing healthy calves.

Loading embryos for freezing.

IVF

In vitro fertilisation takes the process a step further by collecting oocytes (eggs) directly from the donor cow’s ovaries, often via a technique called ovum pick-up (OPU). These oocytes are then matured and fertilised with semen in a laboratory setting (‘in vitro’ means ‘in glass’). The resulting embryos are cultured for several days before being transferred to recipient cows or frozen.

IVF offers distinct advantages, particularly in situations where conventional MOET may not be feasible:

Accessing genetics from young or pregnant animals: Oocytes can be collected from heifers before they reach puberty or even from pregnant cows without harming the developing calf, further shortening the generation interval.

Efficiency with expensive or sexed semen: IVF requires less semen per oocyte than AI or MOET, making it a more cost-effective option.

Greater flexibility in donor management: Donors can be OPU’d more frequently than they can be flushed for MOET, allowing for a more continuous supply of embryos.

Utilising problem breeders: IVF can be used to obtain embryos from valuable cows that may have difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy naturally, or those that don’t respond well to superovulation for MOET.

ET and IVF

Whether the embryos are produced via MOET or IVF, the final step for creating a pregnancy is embryo transfer (ET). The success of ET relies heavily on having a healthy, well-synchronised recipient cow or heifer whose reproductive cycle is at the same stage as the collected embryo. 

The added value of incorporating these technologies into a UK cattle farming business is multifaceted. Beyond the accelerated genetic progress and increased offspring from elite animals, these techniques can contribute to improved herd health through selecting for disease resistance traits; increased sale of high-value genetics through selling surplus embryos or progeny at a premium; more efficient use of resources by focusing breeding efforts on the most genetically valuable animals and greater control over breeding programmes.

Implementing advanced reproductive technologies does require investment in terms of cost, time, and management expertise.

Success rates can vary depending on factors such as donor and recipient health, the skill of the practitioners, and the specific technology used.

However, for many UK cattle farmers looking to stay competitive and drive their herds forward genetically, the added value that MOET, IVF, and ET can bring makes them increasingly attractive options.

Working closely with a veterinary practice or breeding service provider experienced in these techniques is key to unlocking their full potential.

For more information visit the Paragon Vets website.

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Job index reveals the toughest jobs in the UK https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/rural/job-index-reveals-the-toughest-jobs-in-the-uk/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:20:30 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=108959 Amanda Owen has given an insight into the difficulties of farming, as a poll finds farming is viewed as one of the top 10 most difficult jobs.

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Amanda Owen, Yorkshire shepherdess, standing in front of a tractor
Yorkshire shepherdess Amanda Owen.

The poll revealed paramedics, farmers and armed forces personnel were cited by the public as deserving greater recognition for the physically and mentally draining work they do.

Farmers came in eighth on the list of the top 20 jobs that were viewed as the UK’s toughest. Firefighters came in first place, followed by paramedics, surgeons and nurses, then police officers, armed forces and care workers.

This was judged according to criteria including physical demands, danger and risk, and work environment.

The poll of 2,000 people was commissioned by Samsung to launch its latest Rugged device range, designed to thrive in harsh work environments.

“Farming isn’t for the faint-hearted”

To emphasise the importance of durable technology in tough jobs, Samsung enlisted farmer and shepherdess Amanda Owen to give an insight into the realities of working life on a farm. 

From mucking out and herding animals, to operating machinery and navigating unpredictable weather, Amanda shared how physically demanding farm life can be. 

Amanda commented: “Farming isn’t for the faint hearted – we’re up before dawn, battling the elements, and it takes real resilience out here. In this environment, our tech needs to be just as tough – anything that can’t handle water or a drop is a liability. 

“We need something rugged on the outside and smart on the inside, that can keep up with the job.”

Two thirds of respondants (62%) agreed that tough jobs need more recognition in the UK– saying that they play a vital role in keeping the country running (64%), often work long hours with little rest (46%) and face hazardous conditions daily (62%).

Meanwhile, 63% of people believe for a job to be ‘tough’ it must take place in an extreme environment. 58% of jobs which can be considered challenging also involve working with dangerous equipment, with a further 55% fearing dangerous people.

READ MORE: “We don’t think we’re heroes, but we do want respect”
READ MORE: Yorkshire farmer releases Billy Joel-inspired song with strong message

The top 20 toughest jobs:

  1. Firefighter (45%)
  2. Paramedic (44%)
  3. Surgeon (44%)
  4. Nurse (37%)
  5. Police officer (34%)
  6. Armed Forces personnel (28%)
  7. Care worker (22%)
  8. Farmer (20%)
  9. Teacher (20%)
  10. Social worker (18%)
  11. Fisherman (16%)
  12. Construction worker (15%)
  13. Agricultural Labourer (11%)
  14. Builder/bricklayer (9%)
  15. Underground utility worker (9%)
  16. Scaffolder (6%)
  17. Mechanic (6%)
  18. Roofer (6%)
  19. Refuse collector (bin worker) (5%)
  20. Train driver (5%)

Physically demanding roles

The poll also revealed that nearly half (46%) of respondents said they don’t feel like they have the resilience to take on a physically demanding role, a figure that dropped to 40% among men.

In contrast, 52% of women believe they have what it takes to handle roles that might require higher levels of emotional and mental capacity.

When it comes to younger generations, 61% of those aged 18–24 have considered taking up physically tough roles when exploring career options. This compares with just 11% of boomers, who said they prefer to steer clear of jobs they’d deem tough.

Two in five (38%) agree there’s a misconception that physically demanding jobs don’t require robust technology.

The poll also revealed that nine in 10 of those to respond valued devices that can withstand harsh conditions. Reducing physical strain through equipment (54%), alerting workers to risks more quickly (53%) and automating repetitive tasks (45%) were cited as ways to ease pressure. 

Rugged range 

Annika Bizon, mobile experience VP of product & marketing, Samsung UK&I commented: “Tough roles demand robust support. Whether it’s maintaining connectivity in the field or ensuring mission-critical tasks aren’t interrupted, having the right tech in place is essential. 

“The Rugged range has been engineered specifically for these environments – combining military-grade durability with the business tools workforces require.”

The Samsung Rugged range, which includes the Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Tab Active5 Pro, is designed to take on tough, rugged environments, offering water and dust resistance, drop protection, long battery life as well as replaceable batteries, and enhanced touch sensitivity for use in the rain or with gloves.

From construction sites and emergency callouts to remote locations and extreme weather – where phone failure simply isn’t an option – Samsung says the range is built to go the distance with those who keep the country running. 

Key features:

  • Military-grade protection, taking up to a 1.8m drop with the cover on
  • Programmable hot key allows you to set up shortcuts for frequently used apps
  • You can transform the device into a walkie-talkie, torch, scanner, payment terminal or whatever you need it to be
  • Ability to set up Knox Suite swiftly with QuickStart Go means teams can be up and running with business-ready devices in no time, while Samsung Knox security keeps data protected against malware or threats
  • Three-year warranty, up to eight years of security maintenance releases and eight generations of operating system updates
  • Next-business-day doorstep exchange.

The Samsung Rugged devices are available to purchase now. For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/uk/business/mobile/rugged/.

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Discover Barn Owl Wireless for smart crop store management https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/discover-barn-owl-wireless-for-smart-crop-store-management/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=108465 For over a decade, Martin Lishman’s Barn Owl Wireless system has helped farmers gain control of the crop storage process with intelligent monitoring and automatic fan control. Now, a major step forward has arrived.

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The new Barn Owl Wireless Web App literally puts the farmers’ grain store in their pocket.

Crop storage is one of the most critical but often overlooked aspects of farm management. Poor conditions in-store can lead to spoilage, reduced quality, and major financial losses.

Martin Lishman Ltd has officially launched the all-new Barn Owl Wireless Web App. The company explained that this is the most significant upgrade to the system since its original launch in 2010.

Built from the ground up with the latest web technologies, the app delivers faster performance, a more intuitive user experience, and a host of powerful new features that respond directly to farmer feedback.

Whether you manage a small on-farm store or a large commercial facility, use flat stores or silos, the new web app offers a smarter, more accessible way to monitor and control your crop storage from anywhere, the Martin Lishman team said.

Why Barn Owl Wireless matters?

Barn Owl Wireless is a wireless crop monitoring and fan control system designed to help farmers maintain optimum storage conditions for grain and other crops.

It uses a network of wireless sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, and CO₂ inside the store and then automatically controls conditioning systems based on real-time conditions.

This smart approach helps to:

  • Prevent spoilage and maintain crop quality
  • Reduce energy consumption by only running fans when conditions are right
  • Simplify record-keeping and compliance for assurance schemes
  • With a modular design, the system can be tailored to suit stores of all sizes and types. It has been widely adopted across the UK and internationally and has received recognition from the farming industry for its innovation and real-world results.
Email alerts on the BOW app
Email alerts can be set up for any piece of equipment with just a few clicks.

Complete redesign for the future

The new Barn Owl Wireless Web App has been completely rebuilt using modern web technologies. It replaces the previous interface with a fully responsive, browser-based platform that works seamlessly on desktops, tablets, and smartphones, the manufacturer confirmed.

There is no need to install an app or worry about compatibility with different devices. Users simply log in through their browser to view real-time store data, adjust fan settings, and access historical reports.

Joel Capper, managing director at Martin Lishman Ltd, explained: “Over the years, we’ve listened to what our users want. This new web app is built around those conversations. It’s faster, more user-friendly, and sets the stage for future innovation.

Exciting new features

Barn Owl Wireless advert for app

The new Barn Owl Wireless Web App introduces over 40 enhancements designed to improve both the day-to-day user experience and the long-term management of crop stores.

While not all changes are immediately visible, many are working quietly in the background or have been subtly integrated into the interface to make the system faster, smarter, and easier to use.

Here are five key improvements that stand out:

1. Custom alerts

Users can now set up email alerts based on their specific store setup. For example, they can receive an instant email notification if grain temperatures rise above a critical threshold. These alerts help store managers respond quickly to prevent spoilage and maintain grain quality.

2. Faster and clearer graphing tools

A redesigned graphing system allows users to view and compare data more easily. Graphs load faster and offer more detail, making it easier to monitor trends and demonstrate compliance.

3. Notes feature for team communication

A new Notes tool lets users log important changes or updates to the store. These notes are visible to all users on a site, helping to coordinate teams and maintain accurate records of what has happened and when.

4. Simplified fan control interface

A cleaner, more logical control page makes it easier to manage conditioning fan settings. Whether you are using fully automatic control or making manual adjustments, the system now provides a clearer overview of current fan status.

5. Built for what’s next

One of the most valuable aspects of the new Barn Owl Wireless Web App is its future-ready architecture. By completely rebuilding the platform using modern web technologies, Martin Lishman has laid the foundation for continuous innovation and seamless updates.

With energy costs under pressure and store compliance becoming more important, the system offers a reliable way to reduce waste, lower running costs, and maintain quality standards.

Timing that works in your favour

This major update could not come at a better time. The system is eligible for support through the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund, offering up to £1,927 off the retail price of a Barn Owl Wireless system.

In addition, Martin Lishman is offering a £200 early registration discount for those who sign up in advance.

With funding support and a brand-new platform, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your crop store management.

Read full details at barnowlwireless.com.

Barn Owl Wireless is the smarter, faster, and more flexible way to manage crop storage. The future of farm technology is here.

Read more farm tech news.


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New digital platform to transform poultry disease resilience https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/livestock/poultry/platform-to-transform-poultry-disease-resilience/ Fri, 30 May 2025 15:55:58 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=108014 Livestock Protect, from Livetec Systems, helps the poultry sector predict, prevent and respond to disease threats.

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LiveTec

With avian influenza (AI) continuing to disrupt poultry operations across the UK, the launch of Livestock Protect comes at a critical time, says Julian Sparrey, group technical director and co-founder of Livetec.

“HPAI continues to expose the urgent need for a more robust, 360-degree approach to biosecurity across the poultry sector,” he explains.

Livestock Protect has been developed to fill that gap, giving producers the tools to manage risk in real-time – making faster, more informed decisions and improving operational efficiencies to help protect their flocks and businesses from disease threats.”

Poultry disease – Transforming biosecurity

As a leading provider of emergency poultry depopulation services for notifiable diseases, Livetec has used its extensive frontline experience, industry data, and welfare-first mindset to help producers streamline operations and improve disease resilience.

Mr Sparrey explains the easy-to-use platform and accompanying mobile app is designed to reduce paperwork and simplify biosecurity management, while empowering all poultry keepers to make faster, data-led decisions to minimise the risk of outbreaks.

“Livestock Protect is available via a subscription model, in three packages to suit different business needs, including a free app-only version that provides access to essential features,” he says.

“Among these features are real-time AI outbreak mapping – including wild birds – which gives producers immediate visibility of disease threats, and our biosecurity chatbot powered by Google Gemini – Paula – which provides instant access to expert advice when it’s needed most.”

Advanced features

Mr Sparrey explains the Premium and Enterprise packages offer additional functionality.

“Premium and Enterprise users will also get access to eBAS – our unique biosecurity assessment system that delivers weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations for each farm – as well as AccessProtect, which enables simple visitor logging for full traceability at all times.”

For Enterprise users, the platform includes practical emergency response tools, such as a depopulation calculator, live operations dashboard and access to national outbreak plans.

“These features can also be purchased as bolt-ons to the Free and Premium packages, giving producers the flexibility to build a package that best suits their business needs and risk profile,” Mr Sparrey adds.

Scalable tech

Built with scalability in mind, Livestock Protect is already being adopted by large-scale integrators and producers and is accessible across iOS, Android, and web platforms.

“While initially focused on the poultry sector, we are actively working to extend the platform’s capabilities across other livestock sectors, including pigs, to support wider industry resilience,” Mr Sparrey concludes.

For more information and to watch a demo of the Livestock Protect platform, visit: https://www.livetecsystems.co.uk/livestock-protect-platform/

About Livetec

Founded in 2010, Livetec Systems is a leading livestock protection solutions provider dedicated to supporting UK producers with biosecurity and disease management.

With a wealth of expertise in the team, the company provides practical, effective solutions to reduce poultry disease risk, safeguard productivity, and maintain high animal welfare standards.

Livetec’s comprehensive approach combines consultancy, advanced biosecurity technology, on-farm equipment and a mobile disease-risk tracking app to help farmers protect their stock.

Through close collaboration with academic, veterinary and industry professionals, the company says it drives innovation to equip farmers with solutions they need to navigate biosecurity threats with ease and contribute to a resilient and secure food system.

Key features

The Livestock Protect platform brings together practical, data-driven tools designed to make biosecurity management easier, faster, and more effective for poultry producers.

Core features include:

  • AI outbreak mapping – providing real-time zone notifications, wild bird surveillance, and historical outbreak data
  • eBAS biosecurity assessment system – delivering weighted risk scores and tailored recommendations based on Livetec’s extensive experience
  • AccessProtect – QR code-based visitor logging for full traceability
  • Biosecurity chatbot ‘Paula’ – powered by Google Gemini, offering instant biosecurity advice with a knowledge base curated by Livetec’s in-house experts
  • Depopulation calculator and live operations dashboard – supporting emergency response planning
  • National outbreak plans and emergency response tools – ensuring users are prepared to act quickly and effectively.

Read more about Livestock Protect on the LiveTec website.

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Knight to showcase sprayer tech developments https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/arable/cereals/knight-to-showcase-sprayer-tech-developments/ Wed, 28 May 2025 11:11:31 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=107781 Among the innovations on the stand will be the Contour Master boom levelling system and new Smart-Inject development.

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Knight Contour Master boom levelling system
Knight Contour Master boom levelling system.

The new Knight Contour Master boom levelling system, developed in-house to suit all Knight boom ranges and widths, will be among the highlights of the Knight stand at Cereals 2025, alongside the new Smart-Inject nozzle technology and examples from the Knight mounted, trailed and self-propelled sprayer ranges. 

Designed to ensure greater levels of nozzle to crop/ground distance accuracy, for enhanced product efficacy, improved work rates and reduced risk of crop and boom damage, Contour Master boom levelling can be specified across the range of mounted, trailed and self-propelled Knight sprayers. 

The system uses independent distance sensors – four on the standard version and six on the 6G variant for even faster response on wider 4 Series and Tri-Fold Knight booms.

The sensors feed information instantly to a power processor controller which governs modulating valves that provide seamless, accurate corrections of boom height and the centre boom section angle.

In addition, the valves control the positive/negative inclination of the left and right inner boom, and of the left and right outer booms. 

Knight will also show the new Smart-Inject development, which won the Innovation Award earlier this year at LAMMA 2025.

Smart-Inject allows both full field and spot spraying to be performed simultaneously with the same machine.

The product for spot spraying, transferred from a separate tank via a secondary line, is only mixed with the main tank solution directly at the nozzle, using pulse width modulation. Variable pulse frequency allows fine-tuning of the application.

Other stand areas will highlight the benefits of proven Knight technology, including MAXImizer PRO circulation, Tank Control PRO automated fill functions, and KINS (Knight Individual Nozzle Switching), which provides air operated individual nozzle control.

Helping minimise product wastage on headlands and short work, KINS uses Knight’s air-switching on/off valves, and can be specified on 250mm or 500mm nozzle spacing.

Cereals stand number: 840

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Activated carbon filters for arable spraying https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/arable/cereals/activated-carbon-filters-for-arable-spraying/ Tue, 20 May 2025 09:49:43 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=107277 The importance of operator safety within enclosed tractor cabs is taking centre stage, particularly during chemical spraying operations.

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The importance of operator safety within enclosed tractor cabs is taking centre stage, particularly during chemical spraying operations.

For arable farmers, who regularly handle pesticides, fungicides and herbicides, the use of activated carbon filters such as those offered by Purecab has become a non-negotiable element of safe and responsible farm management.

Spraying crops with agrochemicals is a necessary practice in modern farming, but it presents a serious risk to human health.

Standard dust filters, which are often factory-fitted in tractor cabs, are designed only to block particles like soil and pollen. They do not stop harmful airborne chemicals from entering the cabin.

This is where Purecab’s activated carbon filtration technology comes into play.

Its filters are specifically engineered to capture and neutralise chemical vapours, ensuring the air inside the cab remains safe during intensive spraying tasks.

Activated carbon filters should be replaced every 400 hours, or annually, whichever comes sooner.

Purecab filters also include indicator beads which allow you to monitor the health of your filter, through a clear window.

The pink beads are bright when at optimal health and fade to dark brown when the filter needs changing.

Purecab filters are powered by ADXORB® activated carbon, which has been independently tested to deliver up to 11 times greater performance than conventional OEM filters, the company says.

Notably, they are among the few filters that meet the ASABE S613-3 international safety standard, which sets a rigorous benchmark for in-cab air quality during pesticide application.

Purecab filters also include indicator beads which allow you to monitor the health of your filter, through a clear window.

This is not just regulatory box-ticking – this is about protecting the health of those working long hours inside machinery during peak spraying seasons.

In an industry under constant pressure to reduce costs and boost sustainability, Purecab filters offer excellent long-term value.

Rather than being disposable, the filters can be reconditioned using ‘Recharge Kits’.

This is less expensive than regularly changing the complete unit, allowing farmers to recharge their filters on-site, minimising downtime and maintenance costs

From Fendt to Massey Ferguson, Case IH to John Deere, Purecab supports an extensive catalogue of over 1,400 tractor makes and models.

The UK support team is on hand to advise on the correct fit for your vehicle, with fast delivery and easy online filter look-up tools available at www.apairltd.com

In today’s regulatory and health-conscious environment, relying solely on dust filters is not only outdated, it’s unsafe.

Activated carbon filters from Purecab provide the necessary chemical protection UK arable farmers need, ensuring every spraying session is as safe as it is effective.

Cereals stand number: 105

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How to simplify your audits https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/business/farm-tech/how-to-simplify-your-audits/ Mon, 19 May 2025 13:34:23 +0000 https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/?p=107208 With farm audits being costly in both time and money, AgriAudit was built specifically to take the hassle out for UK farmers.

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AgriAudit is compatible with over 35 audit standards – and the company is adding more every week.

AgriAudit is a simple, all-in-one mobile app and web platform built specifically for UK farmers to take the hassle out of audits by integrating all your schemes in one place.

It’s compatible with over 35 audit standards – and the company is adding more every week.

Whether you’re preparing for Red Tractor, LEAF, BRC, SQC or another of the many compatible schemes, AgriAudit makes it easier to stay on top of what’s required – without juggling files across folders or printing off endless documents.

Upload a document once, and it’ll automatically be assigned to all relevant standards. You can even carry forward last year’s records, saving hours during prep.

Best of all? You can try it completely free. No card details required.

Upload once, use everywhere

AgriAudit removes duplication by automatically mapping your documents to the right standards.

  • One upload = multiple checklist ticks
  • No more repeating the same task across different schemes
  • Smart filing ensures every document lands where it’s needed.

Stay ahead of your next audit

AgriAudit helps you stay on top of compliance audits all year round – avoiding that final week panic before an inspection.

  • Compatible with 35+ UK audit schemes
  • Tracks what’s complete, missing, or needs updating
  • Dashboard shows exactly where you stand on each scheme.

Built by farmers, for farmers

AgriAudit was built by farmers who know the pressures of audit preparation first-hand.

  • Mobile-friendly: update from the field, yard, or office
  • Upload spray logs, certificates, training records and more in seconds
  • Stay organised and avoid the last-minute scramble.

Know where you stand

No more guesswork. AgriAudit gives you a clear picture of your audit prep at a glance.

  • Simple progress tracker
  • Instantly see what still needs uploading
  • Keep everything stored in one place, always up to date.

Carry last year’s work forward

AgriAudit recognises which documents need to be:

  • Uploaded annually
  • Reviewed and re-signed
  • Or simply confirmed as unchanged.

With the ‘Review & Sign’ feature, you can carry forward key records in minutes and seconds and start next year’s audit prep well ahead of the rush.

Try it free – no card needed

Join the growing number of UK farms already switching to smarter audit management.

  • No payment info required
  • Be set up in 10 minutes
  • Use on desktop, iPhone or Android.

Upload documents, tick off tasks, or snap photos in the field – everything syncs automatically.

Preparing for your audits and want to save hours of admin? AgriAudit makes it simple. Get started today at www.agriaudit.co.uk

Available on the App Store, Google Play, and Web.

AgriAudit would love to hear from you – whether it’s feedback, help getting set up, or an answer to any questions you may have. Get in touch on email: hello@agriaudit.co.uk or call 07873 626 767.

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