Reform in haste, repent at leisure
OPINION: I have been writing about the demise of NZ agriculture research and extension for many years.
Well known soil scientist and sometimes controversial columnist Doug Edmeades is launching his second book.
The latest tome is called Turning the Sods and is a compilation of his best columns written since 2014.
Edmeade says that he still gets a lot of positive feedback - in some cases about columns that are several years old.
"Some readers have urged me, 'Don't give up now, we need you more than ever before'," he explains.
"This stimulated me to consider publishing a compilation of these columns. This book is the result."
Turning the Sods is comprised of 108 columns and is presented in several distinct themes. These include: ‘philosophical considerations,’ ‘science’ and the ‘management of science,’ the ‘pastoral sector,’ ‘climate change,’ water quality – as well as the dangers of extreme ‘environmentalism’ such as ‘Regenerative Agriculture.’
Jock Allison, a fellow agricultural scientist, in his forward to the book, says it is a valuable technical contribution to pastoral agriculture in New Zealand.
“It is a mine of information for farmers and agriculturalists.”
In recommending the book, Allison suggests that there should be a copy of it on the desk or bedside table of all farmers, agricultural professionals and students.
The book can be ordered online at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for $35 plus postage.
Beef + Lamb NZ funded research has shown that some simple changes to pasture management could help farmers make better use of rainfall and build resilience before dry conditions hit.
OPINION: There could hardly be a more appropriate theme for a conference than the one chosen by the red meat sector - Navigating Volatility.
When Northland leather worker Vernon Suckling started making horse saddles 50 years ago, quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles were unheard of.
Alliance Group has confirmed that eligible farmer-shareholders who supply and continue to back the business will receive up to $20 million later this year, following the strategic investment partnership with Dawn Meats.
With a general election under five weeks away, Rural News is asking major political parties about their policies and positions on key issues facing the primary sector. We will run their responses to each question over the next four weeks. The ACT Party and the Greens didn't respond in time.
The red meat sector is in great heart.