ROG WOOD

BASIS has launched an accreditation for pilots of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or drones in response to the increasing use of this technology in agriculture.

The new Basis Agricultural Awareness for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operators module, launched at LAMMA, (the farm machinery and equipment show being held this week at The East of England Showground) is a stand-alone course which will provide drone pilots with appropriate agricultural knowledge and understanding, to ensure best practice and safe operation.

Dr Richard Green, senior lecturer and academic lead - National Centre for Precision Farming (NCPF) Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Interest Group said: "UAS or drones are rapidly changing the science of farm and land management. While this technology offers exciting new opportunities for farm and land management, they need to be used effectively and in a safe manner.

"Users need to understand how they can get the most out of these systems in order to get the best financial returns on investments in this technology. They also need to be aware of the rapidly developing legislation regarding their use and safe operation, as insurers are unlikely to cover the cost of damage or injuries caused by untrained operators."

BASIS is working in conjunction with Harper Adams University run NCPF and leading members of the UAS industry to develop a range of suitable training courses to address this new accreditation requirement.

Market round-up

Lawrie & Symington Ltd sold 208 store heifers in Lanark on Tuesday to a top of 243p per kg and an average of 214p, while 237 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at 260p and levelled at 227p. Fifty-seven store, dairy-bred bullocks sold to 204p and averaged 154p.

Messrs Craig Wilson Ltd sold 1109 prime hoggs in Newton Stewart yesterday to a top of £90 per head and 209.5p per kg to average 190.6p (+6.6p on the week). Included in that overall average were 340 Blackfaces that peaked at £83 and 194.5p to level at 187.6p.

The firm also had 270 cast sheep forward when ewes sold to £132 for Texels and £83 for Blackfaces.

The Cumberland and Dumfriesshire Farmers Mart had 23 prime cattle forward in Dumfries yesterday when heifers sold to 232.5p and averaged 210.8p, while bullocks peaked at 233.5p and levelled at 219.1p.

There were 140 OTM cattle presented in the rough ring when beef cows averaged 128.4p and dairy cows levelled at 92.3p.

The firm also sold 1059 prime hoggs to a top of £92.50 and 219p to average 196.8p (+4.1p).

The 363 cast sheep forward saw heavy ewes sell to £126.50 for Texels and average £91.60 (-£13.64), while light ewes peaked at £87.50 for Cheviots and levelled at £67.25 (-£5.95).