It has been significant over recent years just how often new Merino studs of only a few years’ standing have walked off with top laurels at shows and sales.
There are many reasons for this, but the most obvious and pleasing one is that which reflects the breeding potential of sheep from the older or more established studs. The position is that any prospective new breeder (provided he or she has the money) can select animals of such sound genotype from the established studs that he or she is virtually guaranteed of their prepotency.
But not all credit for the success of these studs can be given to the older breeders who supplied foundation stock. Merino stud breeding is probably the most competitive of all stud ventures in this country. Success is certainly dependent on more than simply buying the right animals and throwing them together haphazardly.
FULL CREDIT
This is where a few of these new breeders who have been so successful must get full credit for the contributing factors to sound breeding: knowledge, management, feeding, and improved farming and breeding techniques.
Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 26 August 2022-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 26 August 2022-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
New farmers' seedling pitfalls
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South African avocado production: a success story
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An agribusiness's dedication to community upliftment
For agribusiness NWK, located in Lichtenburg, North West, corporate social investment is an important part of creating a positive influence alongside financial returns. Johan Bezuidenhout, NWK’s group manager of corporate marketing and communication, spoke to Annelie Coleman about why the company chooses to invest millions of rands in the area it operates in every year.
Empowering dreams, transforming lives
Since its launch in 2013, the Agri's Got Talent competition has revolutionised the lives of many farmworkers by unlocking their hidden talents and fostering a culture of empowerment. Glenneis Kriel spoke to various finalists about how the contest has changed their lives.
Foreign investment: agriculture maintains its appeal
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The real value and message of COP29 for SA agriculture
While the 2024 Conference of the Parties may have disappointed those who hoped for real progress, it's more important for South African agriculture to highlight its role in carbon mitigation
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Tips for better olive production
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More effort needed to protect vulnerable cheetah
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