Why is research so important for sustainable grain production?
Sustainable and profitable grain production relies on applying best practices for the specific environment, inputs and production system used. The interactions between these factors are complex, and if any factor changes, the farmer needs to know how to react. Research is required to understand these changing environments.
An example of this is herbicide resistance in weeds. It takes years of research from the time that resistance is discovered to develop a new herbicide.
Another example is rust pathogens. These are always changing, so ongoing research is needed to improve plant genetics and sustain their pathogen resistance.
Why are commodity organisations getting involved with research?
Internationally, there are many examples of how collaboration between government, industry and academia benefits all involved. The UK, for example, developed a model whereby the government funds studies of relevance to an industry partner, but which are conducted by university-based researchers. Their work focuses on solving a challenge faced by the industry partner or identifying an opportunity that is advantageous to that partner’s business. This, in turn, benefits the country as a whole in terms of job creation or protection of natural resources.
In South Africa, research capacity at statefunded organisations has severely eroded, leaving farmers with a serious lack of research support. This has been exacerbated by significant budget cuts at tertiary institutions.
Investment in structured programmes, in partnership with government, industry and universities, is needed to rebuild local research capacity and address the needs of farmers.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の July 09, 2021 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の July 09, 2021 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Understanding eye conditions in horses: causes and first aid
A horse can get a swollen eye from bumping it against a tree, shaking its head to keep flies away, or even snake venom
IPM requires a completely different mindset
You need to investigate any beneficial insects that may appear on your plants, or you can purchase them
Does parrot farming protect wild species?
Those in favour of commercial captive breeding argue that breeding parrots to sell can relieve pressure on wild populations. Researchers Neil D'Cruze and Rowan Martin review the evidence.
Bacterial and fungal diseases of garlic
Garlic can be prone to bacterial and fungal diseases, and it's important that farmers are proactive in preventing infection and practise appropriate management. Magda du Toit reports.
Responsible wastewater management: a crucial part of farming
The inadequate management of waste water is a challenge that the agriculture sector needs to deal with. Magda du Toit spoke to experts in waste and water management about a cost-effective treatment system.
Technology that can help protect South Africa's farms
Farm attacks, murders, livestock and crop theft, and other rural crimes are a growing concern in South Africa. As a result, more and more farmers are turning to advanced security technology to protect their lives, properties, and livelihoods. Sinenhlanhla Mncwango spoke to experts about the security strategies that producers can adopt to combat these threats.
The impact of theft on farms in South Africa
A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.
Staying afloat amid the cost-price squeeze
John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the importance of environmental and social sustainability for a prosperous agriculture sector.
Free State has no reason to mark Transport Month
Free State Agriculture (FSA) is very concerned about the extremely poor state of rural paved and gravel roads in the province and has very little, if anything, to celebrate during Transport Month, which takes place every October.
SA's food system ‘vulnerable to climate change'
The Just Transition Agenda for Food System Policymaking in SA webinar, hosted by the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) in October, highlighted the role that South Africa’s food system plays in contributing to climate change and how vulnerable it is to the impact thereof.