Summary
Spring conditions in mid-Canterbury show a promising outlook for farmers and growers, despite fluctuating temperatures. Logan Tasker from Carfield Seed reports that growth is ahead of last year by 10 to 14 days, attributed to proactive planning in response to El Niño forecasts. Farmers are adopting risk mitigation strategies, which have contributed to a favorable environment for crop growth.
Leanne Doherty, production manager at Carfield Seed, highlights the company's role in seed production for both domestic and international markets. Carfield Seed specializes in multiplying and exporting seeds, particularly for the livestock sector, which is critical for maintaining pasture and feed supplies. Current conditions are good, with ample feed available, although farmers remain cautious about potential dry spells as summer approaches.
The conversation also touches on the demand for low-risk crops following recent challenging seasons. There is a resurgence in the demand for ryegrass and clover seeds, while quinoa has emerged as a promising new crop with increasing popularity. The discussion concludes with a recognition of the complexities in grain pricing and the importance of maximizing local crop yields to support New Zealand's agricultural industry.
Show Notes
Spring growth is running 10 to 14 days ahead of last year, say Carrfields lead pastoral agronomist Logan Tasker and Carrfields Seed production manager Leanne Doherty. They cover El Nino planning, ryegrass seed demand and low-risk crops. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More from CountryWide CONNECT
Ageing bridges put agri exports at risk without a long-term plan, says Carrfields group managing director Craig Carr. He covers 50 years of change in mid-Canterbury and the next generation of the family business. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Young Auctioneer of the Year competition adds a sheep round at Canterbury Park next week, says Carrfields Livestock auctioneer Dylan Forde. He covers what makes a good auctioneer and where the livestock market is heading. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
GPS technology lets sprayers target weeds instead of covering a whole crop, says Carrfields' Paul Collins. He covers what precision farming means, autonomy and why smaller farms can use it. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Carr Family Foundation is fundraising for a second rural health van, say chair Stacey McKerchar and ambassador Craig “Wiggy” Wiggins. They explain why farmers open up at events and how to give through the Give a Little page. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Carrfields is turning a 20ha property south of Ashburton into a research farm, says general manager of research and innovation Simon Abel. He explains the fast-fail approach and what farmers ask of innovation. WANT TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW LIVE (11am-1pm NZST) ON THE GO? Download CountryWide Connect mobile app to stream the show via Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Or try the voice command ‘Play CountryWide Connect’ on Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/countrywide-connect/id6761033881 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.countrywide&hl=en_NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.