Science system shakeup ‘to maximise investment value’
Reaction to the Government’s major overhaul of the country’s seven crown research organisations has so far been largely positive.
Plant & Food Research is asking growers and beekeepers to share their current practices and their thoughts on future pollination requirements.
The organisation wants to better understand current use of pollination across the horticultural and agricultural sectors and help design research projects that address industry trends and needs.
"New research into pollination relies on having a full picture of how growers and beekeepers are using bees and other methods for pollinating crops, as well as what they feel are the major issues that need addressing in the future," says Dr David Pattemore.
"Current research tends to be based on overseas findings and anecdotal evidence, but there is little scientific evidence to allow scientists to develop research programmes designed to fill gaps in knowledge or directly address issues identified by growers and apiarists as fundamental to their needs."
Growers, farmers and beekeepers from across Australia and New Zealand are asked to fill in the online questionnaire at www.pollinationsurvey.com
"We know that pollination services are becoming more expensive due to the effort required to manage beehives in the wake of diseases such as varroa and colony collapse disorder, and that growers employ a variety of methods that may promote pollination by wild bees and other insects," says Dr Brad Howlett.
"By understanding what methods are currently employed in different crops and regions, we will have a better understanding of how pollination is used now, the barriers for ensuring optimal pollination, and how we can best tailor our research programme to make sure growers, and apiarists, are getting what they need to sustain their businesses."
The pollination survey is part of the European Union's SUPER-B programme and is administered, under strict confidentiality, by the University of Reading in the UK, with additional funding in New Zealand from the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment. SUPER-B is bringing together scientific and societal communities from more than 30 countries across Europe and the globe to develop conservation strategies for crop pollinators.
Federated Farmers says the health and safety changes announced this week by the Government represent the start of overdue reforms.
The Government is calling on rural New Zealanders to share their views on proposed regulations designed to improve the management of farm plastic waste.
For many urban New Zealanders, stepping into Pāmu’s Pinta dairy farm near Taupo last month was the first time they had had the chance to experience farm life up close.
After tasting 240 New Zealand made cheeses, judges have bestowed medals upon 199 of the entries.
Bay of Plenty’s top share farmers Andre and Natalie Meier are no strangers to the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards winning circle.
Afimilk, a global dairy farm management solutions provider, has appointed Justin Miller as the new general manager for New Zealand and Australia.
OPINION: At last, a serious effort to better connect farmers and scientists.
OPINION: If you believe Maori Party president John Tamihere’s claim that “nothing dodgy” occurred at Manurewa Marae during the last…