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.
Bu hikaye Farmer's Weekly dergisinin July 09, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Farmer's Weekly dergisinin July 09, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Uncertainty over Trump's stance on AGOA
It is of vital importance that that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) be upheld following the recent US presidential election, in which Donald Trump emerged as the winner.
Plum pollen study reveals varietal differences in pollination effectiveness
A new study undertaken near George, Western Cape, explored pollination in plum varieties, showing key differences in pollen quality. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports on the research findings.
Study: small cuts to beef production could eliminate years of emissions
In a paper published in early November, scientists reveal that pasturelands, in particular those that were once forests, hold great potential for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Harnessing wind for cleaner energy
At the Windaba Conference and Exhibition, held in October in Cape Town, Western Cape, Niveshen Govender, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the state of wind energy in the country and the opportunities that farmers can exploit.
The Cape Grace: a Cape Town icon is reborn, and her new custodians shine
Brian Berkman has had the exceedingly good fortune of spending many nights at the Cape Grace Hotel over the years. He revisits it to find it as impressive as ever.
Cutting-edge tech aiding the agri sector
Toyota Material Handling's innovations conserve resources and reduce the environmental footprint of farming operations.
Use the correct growing medium for safe seedling production
Instead of buying expensive growing mediums for seedlings, farmers can make their own mixtures from local resources, such as manure, which are economical and produce excellent results
Optimising cherry production and quality
Growing cherries in a suboptimal climate requires manipulating trees and temperatures. But with a considerable market advantage, it is worth the effort. Lindi Botha visited ZZ2's Toscana farm, which for four weeks of the year takes prime position in the cherry market.
Biosecurity & nutrition: the foundation of pig farming success
JD Mostert, a consulting swine nutritionist at CS Vet, and Dr Stefan Steyn, a veterinarian at Afrivet, shared their expertise with Sinenhlanhla Mncwango, delving into why biosecurity and nutrition are critical pillars in establishing and maintaining a productive pig farm geared for long-term success.
The business of pig farming: practical steps for success
Running a pork farm requires knowledge and expertise. Mosele Lepheane, director of a small piggery in the Free State, spoke to Sinenhlanhla Mncwango about the structured approach needed to succeed, from drafting a business plan and managing cash flow to sourcing equipment and expanding market access.
