All from last 24 hours FARM ENERGYSmall wind turbines planning to be axed under new proposalsThe government has proposed removing planning permission requirements for small on-site wind energy projects on farms, in a bid to end dependence on fossil fuel markets. The new proposals from… CROPS MARKETS AND PRICESMiddle East conflict keeps wheat markets elevatedGlobal grain markets remain volatile with heightened tensions in the Middle East adding support to prices, despite large supplies globally. Unlike the disruption at the start of the Ukraine war,… BUSINESS MANAGEMENTFarmers in Wales asked to re-register with Farming ConnectFarmers in Wales who use Farming Connect will need to re-register to continue accessing support services following changes by the Welsh government to the way farmers and rural businesses access… DAIRYHow milk source heat pumps have slashed dairy’s energy billsInstalling three milk source heat pumps is saving a Somerset cheesemaker more than £70,000 a year on electricity bills. Investment by Barber’s, Maryland Farm, Ditcheat, in this new technology is… FINANCEHow the Universal Credit system is failing farming familiesFalling farm incomes mean that many more people are eligible to receive Universal Credit. For some, it is the stigma associated with claiming that puts them off; for others, it… PEST MANAGEMENTPotato and sugar beet aphid insecticide gets new formulationsA popular insecticide for aphid control in potatoes and sugar beet crops has two new formulations available this season. The liquid and granule formulations will replace the previous powder formulation… LIVESTOCK DISEASESFarmers advised to vaccinate against bluetongue as cases riseLivestock farmers are being advised to vaccinate their animals against bluetongue, as vet and industry leaders warn the coming “season” could be the worst yet since the disease appeared in… MOWERSClaas Disco 1100 plain disc mower gets crop swathing augersBuyers of Claas’s big Disco 1100 plain butterfly disc mowers can now spec a Direct Swather system on the back. It comprises a pair of augers that grab crop straight… FARMER FOCUSFarmer Focus: Fertiliser reshuffle and yellow rust alertWith the rain finally stopping at the end of February, we were able to get our fertiliser on. My original plan was to apply 35kg N/ha and 15kg S/ha at… FARM POLICYFood production pledge in Defra land plan questionedDefra’s long-awaited Land Use Framework pledges to maintain food production while also supporting housing, infrastructure, energy, and nature – but industry leaders say farmers will need clarity on what is…