Implementation of new regulations

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Implementation of new regulations: The Official Controls (Plant Protection Products) Regulations 2020 (OCR) were recently issued with a policy statement. These apply to the whole of Great Britain and supplement existing regulations that govern the sale and use of plant protection products or PPPs. The Northern Ireland Executive has put in place its own legislation implementing and enforcing official controls for PPPs.

Defra have now issued further guidance on how the regulations will be implemented especially in relation to those organisations needing to register by the 22 September. The release states:

Implementation of new regulations

Implementation of new regulations

‘’There is a single notification process for Great Britain operated by DEFRA. Operators must complete a notification if they import, manufacture, process, distribute PPPs authorised for professional use, adjuvants or PPP ingredients; including active substances, safeners, synergists and co-formulants.

To notify, operators should complete the simple form that is now available on GOV.UK. Guidance on how to notify that your business imports, manufactures, processes, distributes or sells professional plant protection products has also been published’’

The Amenity Forum, representing the sector,  has been in dialogue with Defra on all matters relating to this as well as the development of the new National Action Plan relating to weed, pest and disease management, which is due to be published soon.

The new OCR regulations are in place to:

  • allow regulatory authorities to enforce legal requirements that apply to the placing on the market and use of PPPs throughout the supply chain
  • explain the action enforcement authorities can take where non-compliance is identified or suspected

The 2020 Regulations also apply to components of PPPs such as active substances, synergists, co-formulants and to adjuvants.

Under the Regulations, businesses concerned with the placing on the market of PPPs authorised for professional use, and/or the placing on the market of components of PPPs are required to notify competent authorities of their details and business activities by 22 September 2021. This includes businesses that produce, manufacture, process, import, distribute and sell those products. Information will be requested about company details and contact information, product types, storage and capacity.

Similarly, all users of PPPs in a professional capacity will need to follow a similar process by 22 June 2022. Further information is to be provided for these businesses over the coming months. The HSE will operate controls and enforce the 2020 Regulations in Great Britain, taking a proactive, risk-based approach. It is also expected that Local Authorities will have a role. Enforcement of existing PPP regulations will remain unchanged.

Defra, the Scottish Government, the Welsh Government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are finalising the details of the control programme. These will be provided in communications over the coming months and as said earlier the Amenity Forum has already engaged with all involved in such discussions. As further information comes available, the Forum will issue further releases.

A key element of the Amenity Forum conference will be a focus on policy change and how it impacts on the sector. The conference is to be held at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton on Trent on October 21st. Registration for the conference and associated exhibition is now open and further information can be obtained by contacting Kate at admin@amenityforum.net . Given support from the sector, this allows ticket price to be maintained at 2019 levels of £95 with early bird discounts for registrations prior to September 1st.

Professor John Moverley, Chairman of the Amenity Forum, said ‘’this issued policy statement is highly significant for our sector. However all operating to professional standards has nothing to fear and such controls chime well with the introduction of the UK Amenity Standard, providing full assurance to all involved that organisations are meeting requirements seeking to create safe and sustainable amenity and sports spaces fit for purpose.

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EVO 165D exceeds expectations

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EVO 165D exceeds expectations: Over his 18 years of working in the arb sector, Oliver Husar admits to having used more makes and models of chipper than he cares to remember!

He also admits that his previous experience of using a chipper from GreenMech had left him slightly underwhelmed… Nevertheless, his interest was sparked by GreenMech’s latest EVO series and after seeing the powerful performance and major improvements in build quality at a recent dealer open event, an EVO 165D now proudly sits as the sole chipper on his fleet.

EVO 165D exceeds expectations

EVO 165D exceeds expectations

Carrying out all aspects of hedge and tree work for both domestic and commercial customers in and around North Norfolk, Oliver set up Oliver Husar Tree Services seven years ago. “I’ve used all types and sizes of chipper, and when our previous machine began to struggle with costly age-related issues, it was once again time to look at what options were out there. I had read about the EVO series from GreenMech and was invited to a demonstration event with local dealer TNS which I attended with an open mind, but admittedly low expectations – I’m delighted to say I was proved wrong!”

“When you’re comparing 6” machines, arguably the most critical element is the feed rollers – if you haven’t got the power, the grip and pull, the machine is useless. This is noticeably where GreenMech have massively upped their game. Today, for example, we’ve been processing hawthorns which are notoriously tricky to feed in being fine and bulky, but it’s been absolutely no issue for the EVO 165D.”

GreenMech’s EVO series has been designed in direct response to industry demands to deliver more aggressive torque, more powerful bite and more throughput. The 165D features a 25hp Kubota diesel engine, twin horizontal rollers and unparalleled processing power via the new, heavy-duty flywheel. Together with improved performance, the aspects of safety, durability and ease of maintenance have also been front of mind in its design.

“We had a look at the petrol version of the EVO 165 which packed some serious punch for its size however, as I’m not restricted to sub 750kg for towing, I went for the diesel model. The unit’s strength and build quality really impressed me and the size of the infeed hopper was a big plus.” Oliver adds, “The back-up and support I’ve had from TNS since the delivery in July this year has been great too – the whole process from the machine itself, to the advice has been really positive.”

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Makita introduces new 12VMAX

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Makita introduces new 12VMAX: Among a series of new product launches, Makita has added two 12Vmax CXT multi-line lasers to its extensive range of site equipment. The multi-line lasers project one horizontal and two vertical 360° lines and include a precise self-levelling feature to enable simple setup, layout and alignment.

The 12Vmax CXT Red Multi-Line Laser (SK700DZ) and 12Vmax CXT Green Multi-Line Laser (SK700GDZ) are versatile and durable with a range of features to make work on site as simple as possible. The Red Multi-Line Laser has a range of 25 metres in each direction (50 m diameter) while the green lasers of the SK700GDZ provide an increased range of 35m (70m diameter) and better line visibility in brighter conditions. The robust units are IP54 (dust and splash water) rated, have an operating temperature range of -10 to 50 ºC and feature a ¼ inch tripod thread for easy mounting.

Makita introduces new 12VMAX

Makita introduces new 12VMAX

Each vertical and horizontal laser emitter on the tool projects four lines to create up to three 360-degree laser lines. Depending on what is required, users can choose various combinations of the laser lines in addition to the full three line configuration. Single horizontal or vertical lines, vertical and horizontal combined or both vertical lines (front to back and side to side) are available. It also includes three brightness settings for optimum visibility depending on the environment.

The multi-line laser units feature a rotary base with eccentric rotation mechanism, which reduces set up time, by enabling the laser body to rotate without changing the position of the defined plumb point. With a dial for fine adjustment, the vertical laser lines can also rotate around the defined plumb point by up to 10° left and right.

In addition, the pendulum operated self-levelling system, which is accurate to ± 4º, makes it simple to ensure the lasers are level, even on uneven ground. The units also feature a pendulum lock where self-levelling is not required and to protect the laser when in transit.

Part of the Makita CXT platform, the compact 12Vmax batteries used in the multi-line lasers provide excellent runtimes, with up to 22 and 14 hours from a 4.0ah battery for the new red and green multi-line lasers respectively.

The operational range of both multi-line lasers can be increased to 70 metres (140m diameter) with the use of the Makita LDX1 Line Laser Receiver Set (sold separately), which also enables effective, accurate use of the laser line in bright natural light.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK said: “The new 12Vmax CXT Multi-Line Lasers have been designed for use on a range of site layout, first- and second-fix tasks. The multi-line configuration and self-levelling mechanism makes it simple to align and layout everything from doors and windows, floors, pipework and electrical installations to tiling, lighting and kitchen and bathroom installations.”

To find out more about the Makita range of laser levels visit:  https://makitauk.com/products/measuring

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Leatherjacket Acelepryn Emergency Authorisation

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Leatherjacket Acelepryn Emergency Authorisation: A new Emergency Authorisation (EA) for the use of the Syngenta insecticide, Acelepryn, has been approved to target leatherjackets for the 2021 season.

The EA permits use of Acelepryn on affected greens, tees and fairways, along with horse race courses, training gallops and airfields.

Leatherjacket Acelepryn Emergency Authorisation

Leatherjacket Acelepryn Emergency Authorisation

This season, the treatment period for leatherjackets is permitted up until 29 November 2021.

“The extended application period does allow a longer window of treatment to target larvae activity from later hatching crane fly at the most appropriate timing,” according to ICL Technical Manager, Henry Bechelet, who applied for the Emergency Authorisation on behalf of the industry.

New Syngenta research has been investigating the optimum application timing in challenging situations, particularly where larvae activity may be occurring later in the season. It has also looked at the role of integrated measures to mitigate against leatherjacket damage, including adapting aeration and renovation strategies.

Leatherjackets cause damage to turf through feeding on roots and leaves – typically resulting in pock-marked and uneven surfaces, which can be severe in localised patches, Mr Bechelet pointed out. Racecourses and horse gallops are especially prone to surface instability where root damage is caused by soil pests.

Furthermore, extensive damage can occur in all turf surfaces when badgers, birds and other foragers root through turf in search of leatherjackets. Flocks of birds attracted to feed on larvae are of particular concern on airfields.

Leatherjackets are the larvae of crane fly (daddy longs legs). Adults typically emerge from July, although hatching may be extended into the autumn depending on weather conditions.

“The extension of use to the end of November could prove extremely useful to target later emerging leatherjackets,” he added. Mr Bechelet reminded turf managers and agronomists that all orders must be received by ICL in time to to enable necessary stewardship records and delivery

Acelepryn users can submit online stewardship records of areas treated, via the ICL website.

The new leatherjacket EA supplements the chafer grub specific authorisation announced in earlier this year.

Syngenta Technical Manager, Glenn Kirby, advised the best results have been achieved with applications when young leatherjackets, at the 1st and 2nd instar stages, are actively feeding near the soil surface.

“It’s important to apply at higher water volumes, using the white O8 XC Nozzle to target the spray through to the soil surface,” he advised. “Irrigation where possible will help to move the spray into the target zone.”

The authorised label permits application at the rate of 0.6 litres per hectare, applied in 500-1000 l/ha water. Only one application per year is permitted on any given area.

Greenkeepers and turf managers are urged to report sightings of crane fly activity through the on-line Pest Tracker. The aim is to build a picture of pest activity across the UK and Ireland, to anticipate issues and aid application timing. Further information and pest identification guide is available on the Syngenta Turf UK  website.

For further information on best use guidelines where chafer grubs and leatherjackets have caused economically damaging effects contact an ICL Area Manager or BASIS agronomist:

ICL Area Managers for Acelepryn enquiries:
Scotland

Jamie Lees

jamie.lees@icl-group.com

07500 992464

 North/East

Craig Lalley

craig.lalley@icl-group.com

07824 528252
Midlands/West

Emma Kilby

emma.kilby@icl-group.com

07748 111965

 South East/East London

Andrew Pledger

andrew.pledger@icl-group.com

07387 056659
South/London/Channel Islands

Darren Hatcher

darren.hatcher @icl-group.com

07787 697684

 South West/West London

Nick Martin

nick.martin@icl-group.com

07900 666691
North West

Phil Collinson

phil.collinson@icl-group.com

07824 473699

 South/Central

Matt Nutter

matthew.nutter@icl-group.com

07810 656240

 

Alternatively contact Syngenta UK Technical Manager:
Glenn Kirby

glenn.kirby@syngenta.com

07483 333964

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Wellbeing and wilderness

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Wellbeing and wilderness: It may have been the 15th British Open hosted at prestigious Royal St George’s in Sandwich, Kent, but for the greenkeeping team headed up by course manager Paul Larsen, the 149th Open was an extraordinary and unique event.

Set in the dunes of the Kentish coastline and bisected with swathes of naturalistic grasses and wildflowers, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a nature reserve, not one of the most famous and prestigious golf courses in the world. Yet for Paul, showcasing the natural beauty of the area was a top priority.

Wellbeing and wilderness

Wellbeing and wilderness

Paul comments: “We have amazing views and a unique position as a golf course within a dune land. We made a conscious decision some years ago to move away from the typical golf course with its striped lines and focus on enhancing what makes us special. We brought it back to what it used to be – more wild and natural – and having The Open here has been an opportunity to show people what we’ve been doing.

“When you’re preparing for an event of this magnitude, for us it’s not about modifying the course, adding new holes or making changes to greens and bunkers. It’s about doing what we always do but more regularly and without room for mistakes. We take such pride in our work and were excited to showcase our product.”

Supporting Paul was his resident 16-strong greenkeeping team boosted by the help of two support teams totalling a further 34 greenkeeping specialists from other golf courses both locally and around the UK. Work started at 4am each day and the teams were responsible for hand-cutting the greens, cutting the fairways, tees and aprons and raking the bunkers, all on a daily basis.

In order to sustain such a large greenkeeping resource, Reesink Turfcare, the sole Toro distributor in the UK for golf and sports fields equipment and irrigation products, produced a loan fleet from Toro, global leaders in turfcare machinery to bolster the Toro Reelmaster fairway mowers, Groundsmaster rough mowers, Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid riding greensmowers and Greensmaster Flex walk-behind greensmowers machines already on site.

As a Toro Total Solutions customer, the machines complement the Toro Lynx Central Control System and over a thousand sprinklers across the greens, tees and fairways.

For Paul, having the support from Reesink and Toro is something he is “so grateful for”. Paul elaborates: “There’s no blueprint for hosting The Open in a pandemic. It’s a unique experience so having the support of the extra fleet from Toro made our job easier, enabling us to double our capacity and help everyone to perform at the top of their ability.”

When asked about dealing with the pressures of hosting a major sporting event in the midst of a pandemic Paul is characteristically pragmatic about it: “There’s no doubt that the pandemic gave us some logistical challenges such as getting staff tested and managing teams to avoid social contact.

“The adrenaline does flow but there’s no secret to getting it right. We just focused on our work. We’d put all the right preparations in place so at the end of the day my view was ‘you’ve got what you’ve got’.

“The nature of our work is always reactive, and we adapted constantly whether it was to the weather or changes in regulations. We were resilient and worked incredibly hard. The players and spectators loved the course and we’ve had feedback from members of the sporting press saying it was one of the best Opens they’d seen.”

Having welcomed up to 32,000 visitors per day, the course is currently awaiting a full assessment from Paul and his team. Paul elaborates: “At the end of August when The Open is fully off site we will be able to assess the course and the extent of the damage from footfall. I expect there’ll be some areas that require reseeding or new turf. We may have to burn some areas of the rough to regenerate it but essentially it’ll be routine maintenance.”

In Paul’s ten years working at Royal St George’s, the 2021 British Open was one of the highlights of his career, particularly making such a major success of the event in a pandemic.

Paul concludes: “The biggest achievement? It was definitely keeping everyone safe. It was a pleasure to welcome spectators back to the sport safely and hear the excitement from the crowd. You could feel the energy and it was a fitting end to all our hard work.”

To talk to someone about how the Toro range would suit your course, call Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226800.

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