New pasture guide launched to support farmers in a changing climate
A new publication has been launched that offers a comprehensive and up-to-date resource on commercially available grazing pasture species in New Zealand.
Massey University is tweaking the format of its agricultural courses.
The university's deputy head of the school of agriculture and environment, Professor Danny Donaghy, says they are making sure there are more courses around compliance, greenhouse gases, animal welfare and other key topics. But he says that if new material is added in, some must be removed, because the degrees are just three years.
"What we are trying to do is give graduates a good appreciation of the systems that they work within and to be able to navigate these.
"Not necessarily to have the answers to everything, but we are trying to train them as to where to look for the answers rather than just filling up their heads with figures," he says.
Donaghy says in the age of online, so much more information is freely available, compared with several years ago. He says they are trying to upskill students about how and where to look for information.
"And to know good information from bullshit and to be able to navigate their way through that," he says.
Donaghy says he agrees with the report of AgFirst chief executive James Allen on the skills that will be required for future rural professionals. He says understanding farm systems is key - as is having the people skills to meet the demands of clients and deliver this in a way they require.
Finally, Donaghy says he never ceases be amazed at the high calibre of the Massey ag graduates.
He says their commitment to their studies is great to see and it's no surprise how well Massey is respected in the agriculture and environment space.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
There are opportunities outside the farmgate for young farmers to further develop their skills, says 2025 Primary Industries Emerging Leader Award winner Bridie Virbickas.
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