New pasture guide launched to support farmers in a changing climate
A new publication has been launched that offers a comprehensive and up-to-date resource on commercially available grazing pasture species in New Zealand.
Massey University is tweaking the format of its agricultural courses.
The university's deputy head of the school of agriculture and environment, Professor Danny Donaghy, says they are making sure there are more courses around compliance, greenhouse gases, animal welfare and other key topics. But he says that if new material is added in, some must be removed, because the degrees are just three years.
"What we are trying to do is give graduates a good appreciation of the systems that they work within and to be able to navigate these.
"Not necessarily to have the answers to everything, but we are trying to train them as to where to look for the answers rather than just filling up their heads with figures," he says.
Donaghy says in the age of online, so much more information is freely available, compared with several years ago. He says they are trying to upskill students about how and where to look for information.
"And to know good information from bullshit and to be able to navigate their way through that," he says.
Donaghy says he agrees with the report of AgFirst chief executive James Allen on the skills that will be required for future rural professionals. He says understanding farm systems is key - as is having the people skills to meet the demands of clients and deliver this in a way they require.
Finally, Donaghy says he never ceases be amazed at the high calibre of the Massey ag graduates.
He says their commitment to their studies is great to see and it's no surprise how well Massey is respected in the agriculture and environment space.
In the first of two articles focusing on electrification in New Zealand, Leo Argent talks with Mike Casey, operator of the 100% electric-operated Electric Cherries orchard and founder of advocacy group Rewiring Aotearoa.
A Foundation for Arable Research initiative which took a closer look at the efficiency of a key piece of machinery for arable farmers - their combine harvesters - has been recognised at the Primary Industry NZ Awards.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has reiterated New Zealand’s ‘China And’ policy, adding that it wasn’t about choosing one market over another but creating more options for exporters.
A long running trade dispute between New Zealand and Canada over dairy access has been resolved.
New Zealand Police is urging rural property owners to remain vigilant and ensure their property is secure.
New Zealand and Malaysia have agreed to boost trade for high-quality halal meat products.
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