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.
The opportunity to spend more time on farm while providing a dedicated service for shareholders attracted new environmental manager Ben Howden to work for Waimakariri Irrigation Limited (WIL).
Federated Farmers claims that the Otago Regional Council is charging ahead unnecessarily with piling more regulation on rural communities.
Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand for their products.
OPINION: We have good friends from way back who had lived in one of our major cities for many years.
Listed Canterbury milk processor Synlait’s shares have been placed in a trading halt.
OPINION: Even before the National-led coalition came into power, India was very much at the fore of its trade agenda.