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Lincoln University to grow crops under new solar farm

Ground-breaking research exploring growing high-value food crops and grapes under solar panels starts later this year at Lincoln University’s new 4ha Energy Farm in Canterbury.

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Global solar installs doubling every three years

Global solar installations are doubling every three years, says Lincoln University's Dr Shannon Page, as NZ farmers adopt solar to cut costs and add resilience.

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Sam McKerras’s dairy career built through Primary ITO

For Canterbury dairy farmer, Sam McKerras, the path from school leaver to emerging industry talent has been shaped significantly by his journey with Primary ITO. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

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Radar sensor to measure fat depth in livestock and carcasses

Lincoln Agritech researchers are developing a radar sensor to measure subcutaneous fat depth in live animals and carcasses, filling a technology gap. Words Eva Anton.

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Dairy cow prices hit 10-year highs

Cow prices have reached 10-year highs this season and while it’s great news for the balance sheets of some, it’s creating challenges for others. Words Anne Lee.

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Functional diversity key to diverse pastures, says professor

Diverse pasture mixes are often misunderstood and require a clear strategy to be beneficial says a Massey University professor at the 2026 Beef + Lamb NZ AgInnovation Conference. Words Rebecca Greaves.

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Rising costs and shortages hit dairy conversions

Rising costs and supply shortages make careful planning and purchasing vital for farmers undertaking dairy conversions. Words Anne Lee.

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Colostrum in first hours shapes calves’ lifetime milk yield

Intensive New Zealand-based studies have revealed just how much is riding on ensuring new born calves receive enough high-quality colostrum in their first few hours of life. Words Anne Lee.

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Wearable tech could transform hill-country beef

Te Kuiti farmer Natasha Cave's Kellogg report found wearable technology could revolutionise hill-country beef farming. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

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Treat cattle wearables as a tool, not a system

AgDesign's Tom Chisholm says virtual fencing and cattle wearables are not a silver bullet, and farmers should design the system before buying collars. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

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