
Climate change and climate-change mitigation have become buzz phrases over the past five to 10 years, with the call for more direct action from global citizens to limit the impact of human activities on the climate.
This has been particularly highlighted by various organisations that have called for people to limit the amount of meat they consume, or eliminate meat from their diets altogether.
The idea behind this is that livestock are important and significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, which have led to global warming and, inevitably, climate change.
However, despite the claims of such naysayers, cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry have been shown to have a positive impact on the environment.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t any room for improvement in livestock production, and many farmers are, in fact, at the forefront of sustainable agricultural innovation.
Thus, in this article, Farmer’s Weekly looks at the positive contributions that keeping livestock makes to the environment and soil health in particular,
BREAKING UP COMPACT SOIL
Increasing numbers of farmers are incorporating livestock into their grain operations, says Michelle Rook, a journalist for AgWeb. This move, she says, is for the benefit of these farmers’ soil.
In a November 2022 article, Rook spoke to Mike Winkler, a soil conservationist at McCook in Nebraska, US, about the agronomic benefits of running cattle on a farm. He explained that the cattle’s hoof action breaks up toplayer compaction which, if left unresolved, could hamper water infiltration and soil aggregate stability, among other problems.
Bu hikaye Farmer's Weekly dergisinin 24 February 2023 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 24 February 2023 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

The genetically unique Senepol: ideal for beef production in Southern Africa
Since its arrival in South Africa in 2001, the Senepol has become a strong contender in the country's beef cattle arena. Tiekie Muller, owner of the Nooitgedacht Senepol stud, spoke to Annelie Coleman about how the growing number of Senepol stud breeders underpins the value of the breed under exacting African conditions.

Microwave mango and granadilla cheesecake
This delicious mango fridge tart is so easy to make, perfect when you want a quick yet indulgent dessert (it only takes 25 minutes to whip up). The fruit’s gorgeous colour and fragrance are maximised.

Global outlook for wheat in 2024/25
In its latest estimate, the International Grains Council has adjusted global wheat production for the coming season due to poorer-than-expected harvests in the EU. However, global supplies remain strong, while global consumption is expected to increase to reach about 804 million tons. Janine Ryan reports.

From fallow land to award-winning wines: the Newstead story
Newstead Lund Family Vineyards, a relatively new wine estate, has established itself as one of the best producers of sparkling wine in South Africa. Owners Doug and Sue Lund spoke to Glenneis Kriel about their production philosophy, rise to success, and possible expansion plans.

Fact file of fungal diseases in wheat
Wheat is a significant crop, and like other crops, is susceptible to a range of infections. Here, we provide information on the most important fungal diseases that affect wheat.

Soil preparation for wheat and other cereals
For seed to germinate and plants to grow, soil often needs to be prepared. The manner in which it is done depends on the type of soil, the organic matter and moisture it contains, the crop to be planted, as well as the previous crop that was planted in the field. Magda du Toit spoke to cereal experts and farmers for guidance.

The origin of the Bonsmara
The Breed of the Month for March is the Bonsmara. In this first article, we take a look at the man behind this popular cattle breed, as well as how it was developed.

The Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel is once again a destination of choice
While some of its contemporaries have suffered from inner-city neglect, the Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel has bounced back in elegance and style, writes Brian Berkman.

Age catches up with the Nissan Navara
The Navara line-up was increased last year in Nissan's effort to win back market share. The Citizen's Mark Jones sampled the top-of-the-range Pro-4X to see how the double cab compares with modern bakkies.

Growing onion sets
Bill Kerr discusses what onion sets are, and how and when to produce them to obtain the maximum financial benefit.