Reform in haste, repent at leisure
OPINION: I have been writing about the demise of NZ agriculture research and extension for many years.
Well known soil scientist and sometimes controversial columnist Doug Edmeades is launching his second book.
The latest tome is called Turning the Sods and is a compilation of his best columns written since 2014.
Edmeade says that he still gets a lot of positive feedback - in some cases about columns that are several years old.
"Some readers have urged me, 'Don't give up now, we need you more than ever before'," he explains.
"This stimulated me to consider publishing a compilation of these columns. This book is the result."
Turning the Sods is comprised of 108 columns and is presented in several distinct themes. These include: ‘philosophical considerations,’ ‘science’ and the ‘management of science,’ the ‘pastoral sector,’ ‘climate change,’ water quality – as well as the dangers of extreme ‘environmentalism’ such as ‘Regenerative Agriculture.’
Jock Allison, a fellow agricultural scientist, in his forward to the book, says it is a valuable technical contribution to pastoral agriculture in New Zealand.
“It is a mine of information for farmers and agriculturalists.”
In recommending the book, Allison suggests that there should be a copy of it on the desk or bedside table of all farmers, agricultural professionals and students.
The book can be ordered online at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for $35 plus postage.
Tickets are now available for Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Out the Gate, returning from 19-21 May 2026 at Te Pae, Christchurch.
Dairy Women's Network (DWN) is welcoming AgriHealth as a new partner.
Northland Field Days patron Ross Newlove remembers the inaugural field days he attended 40 years ago.
Southland farmer Murray Donald has been appointed as chair of Safer Farms, the industry-led organisation focused on reducing harm, injuries and fatalities in the agricultural sector.
National Lamb Day returns this Sunday, 15 February, with Beef + Lamb New Zealand Inc calling on Kiwis to fire up their barbecues and celebrate the people and the product that put New Zealand on the world map.
When it comes to arranging the sound system at Northland Field Days, no one does it better than Colin Finlayson.

OPINION: Here w go: the election date is set for November 7 and the politicians are out of the gate…
OPINION: ECan data was released a few days ago showing Canterbury farmers have made “giant strides on environmental performance”.