Case IH launches new Tier 3 Puma Tractor at Fieldays
Case IH is expanding its popular Puma range in New Zealand, with a new model that was released at Fieldays.
The rapidly expanding 'virtual farming' arena looks like it's taking a step nearer reality with Hamilton-based Gallagher Group taking ownership of Australian virtual fencing developer Agersens.
Best known for its eShepherd system, Gallagher has been a minor investor in Agersens since 2016. It suggests that the acquisition will allow it to develop the technology further and drive commercial expansion in Australasia and beyond. The technology is a result of the original, licensed intellectual property - developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - that demonstrated how cattle can be trained to stay within "virtual" boundaries using a combination of audio signals and aversive electrical pulses.
The system is designed to allow farmers to control the location and movement of cattle via a web-based application and a solar powered, counter-weighted neckband, connected to the internet via a base station. Boundaries can easily be drawn around entire properties or selected areas within a property, using a tablet or smart device, while also offering real-time information of individual animal locations.
In practice, when an animal moves towards the 'virtual' fence, they are given an audible warning. If they fail to back away, they are given an electrical pulse that is less than that of an electric fence - causing discomfort rather than harm. Animals are said to quickly learn to respond to the audible cue alone before any electrical pulse is required.
Recent fully-subscribed trials in New Zealand and Australia have shown that the system is particularly effective when used in rotational grazing.
It removes the risks of over/under grazing as well as helping to reduce the environmental footprint by excluding animals from sensitive areas - such as streams, rivers or riparian plantings.
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
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.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…