Technology
The value of EID
Australia's sheep and goat producers have until 1 January 2027 to get an electronic identification device (EID) into every animal leaving its property of birth or last property of residence. Sheep Producers Australia says the biggest gains will be won not just at the border, but also on farm. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Costs climbing
Farmers have a varied wish list when it comes to new conversions. Smart strategic planning and purchasing decisions are important to ensure the job gets completed within deadline and then stands the test of time. Words Anne Lee.
The true cost of cheap
After four decades working in irrigation, Stephen McNally is urging whole-of-life thinking for irrigation design. The one lesson that keeps repeating is that systems chosen on capital price alone rarely deliver the best long-term value. Words Stephen Mcnally & Kath Healy.
Farming in the age of technology: Insights from farmers
A recent farmer panel highlighted the importance of balancing the adoption of new technologies while still retaining core farming skills. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Zapping weeds in Southland
In late winter, emerging from a carrot paddock near Woodlands, the sight of bright lights, faint zapping sounds and puffs of smoke might turn a few heads; but it is just Matthew Malcolm's "killer robot" at work. Words Karen Trebilcock.
Beyond the boom
As arable and pastoral farming face a chemical-light future, a Swiss precision technology has AI sprayers already in use in Canterbury and Pukekohe, slashing chemical use by 80-90% and improving yields. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Turning Sheep Skin into Collagen Gold
One biotech company in Christchurch is making waves with the humble sheep – not for its wool, meat, or milk, but for its skin targeting the global demand for women’s health products. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Drone Technology is Flying
Drone technology has advanced to bring greater precision and cost-efficiency for farmers and growers to manage fertiliser and chemical sprays. Words Sheryl Haitana.
Rotary Refit
Many ageing rotaries can benefit from a facelift at a fraction of the cost of installing a new farm dairy. Words Sheryl Haitana.
Virtual fencing life changing for hill-country bulls
The winter of 2023 saw Hawke’s Bay farmers Matt and Gemma Barham’s energy and enthusiasm levels for farming waning as they shifted bulls on crop behind a white electric wire through a wet winter. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.