FAR, with support from MPI’s SFFF has recently launched a $2.4 million extension project called Growers Leading Change. Project Leader Anna Heslop talks to Alison Stewart about how it was formed, what it aims to achieve and how growers can get involved.

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This week’s road trip calls in to Waikato and Rangitikei in the North Island and then down to Mid and South Canterbury.

There’s a lot going in the freshwater, greenhouse gas and farm environment plan compliance space. In this episode, Farm Systems Research Manager Diana Mathers outlines the work that FAR is doing to help growers understand and meet some of the incoming requirements.

New Federated Farmers Arable Chair Colin Hurst talks to Alison Stewart about opportunities arable for what he hopes to achieve during his three year term.

Leeston arable farmer and regen ag proponent David Birkett is back, talking to Alison Stewart about how he uses cover crops to improve soil quality on his farm.

Alison Stewart and Phil Rolston discuss the emerging impacts of diseases of vegetable seeds on international markets, and outline management options in the field, with a focus on protecting fungicides against the development of resistance.

How much water do grass seed crops need? When are the critical application times? Can you over-water? What happens if they don’t get enough? FAR’s Herbage Research Manager, Richard Chynoweth, explains that grass seed crops need water at both ends of the growing season, first to form and then to fill seed heads. He also outlines the benefits of soil moisture monitoring. 

Each month Cut the Crop! takes an on-air road trip, stopping off with FAR growers in the regions to find out what’s on their minds.

This month, we’re with Chris Dillon in Gore, Earl Worsfold in Darfield, Simon White in Otane and Graeme Austin in the Waikato, talking about irrigation, snow, environmental regulation and a whole host of other interesting stuff.

How much do bees like radish and carrot seed crops? Are there any other options to add to the pollination mix? In the episode, we talk to Brad Howlett from Plant & Food Research about the role of alternative pollinators, and some SIRC funded research which is focusing on DIY drone fly delivery services.

FAR’s Technology research and extension manager, Allister Holmes, outlines his role and some of the projects he’s working on across a range of North and South Island crops. He also discusses some of the challenges involved in making the best use of farm data, and how they are being dealt with here and overseas.