Canadian Spraying Experts Bring Workshops to NZ Growers
Two Canadian spraying experts, Tom Wolf and Jason Deveau, are visiting New Zealand in early August to ensure that arable growers are hitting the target with this key piece of equipment.
Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) chief executive Dr Alison Stewart is stepping down in June this year after seven years in the role.
Announcing her resignation, Stewart says she has thoroughly enjoyed her time at FAR and will be sad to say goodbye to a sector that has impressed her immensely with its diversity, sustainability and resilience.
"Having led FAR through the implementation of several major initiatives, including signing up to the GIA for Biosecurity Readiness and Response, introducing the new knowledge exchange platform 'Growers Leading Change' and establishing Cultivate Ventures, an industry led investment fund, it is now time to move on."
Stewart says she plans to continue working in a science advisory and board director capacity and is looking forward to sharing her knowledge and experience of the New Zealand science and agricultural sectors with up and coming leaders.
FAR board chair Steven Bierema thanked Stewart for the "great contribution" she has made to FAR and the wider arable industry.
"In a changing world, Alison has been a driving force, encouraging the arable industry to adapt and to adopt changes using science-based solutions.
"With great passion, Alison has worked with her team to make FAR the go-to organisation for arable research and information and a workplace where the whole team feels at home.
"She has worked hard to develop strong communication pathways with both government agencies and industry partners. She always sought a collaborative solution, but wouldn't shy away from standing up for our industry when required.
"Personally, I feel privileged to have worked with Alison; as a fellow northern European, I appreciated her direct approach."
The board will begin the recruitment process shortly.
OPINION: Farmers are being put on notice by the Green Party.
As dairy farmers lock in plans for the upcoming mating season, a partnership between Fonterra and Silver Fern Farms has been formed with the aim of making it simpler to create additional value from calves not entering the replacement herd.
Farmers can now get a more reliable view of pasture covers across their farm, thanks to a combination of three data sources.
A warning to dairy farmers not to expect the same good conditions that they experienced last season, has been issued by a leading farm consultant.
South Waikato farmer Bas Nelis is always interested in fine-tuning his business to improve results.
On a farm in Tikorangi, North Taranaki, Brent Stevenson is sharemilking 1,400 cows.

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