US Fruit Growers worried about disastrous warm weather
Record high-temperatures in the eastern parts of the US could lead to crops maturing too early, which could leave them vulnerable to cold winter temperatures and frost. This was according to an article published by Bloomberg.
Celebrating World Wildlife Day
Global rhino and wildlife populations were under threat as a result of poaching. This was according to SANParks chief executive, Fundisile Mketeni, who recently spoke at the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga in celebration of World Wildlife Day.
R380m budgeted for disaster relief not used for drought
More than R380 million that could have been used to assist farmers during the drought has not been spent. This was revealed during a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee meeting in which the committee was given an account of how Treasury and other departments had assisted farmers during the drought.
Transformation in SA citrus industry
Citrus production is a long-term investment, requiring technical expertise to ensure profitability. As a result, new entrants to the industry need to be trained, educated and mentored in order to become competitive and sustainable.
Possible EU subsidy cuts could benefit SA agriculture
The South African agricultural sector would benefit if subsidies to EU farmers are cut significantly, according to Dr John Purchase, CEO of Agbiz.
More water restrictions for Western Cape
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced an additional 10% water restriction on agricultural water use that will remain in force until dam levels reach 85% of capacity.
Cattle quarantined after brucellosis outbreak
Thirteen cattle herds in the Eastern Cape have been placed in quarantine after testing positive for brucellosis.
Fall armyworm spreads to Mpumalanga potato crops
Fall armyworm (FAW) has now spread to potato crops, with the first infestation reported in the Loskop Valley near Marble Hall in Mpumalanga on 23 February.
Dam levels increase but some areas still dry
Torrential rains during the past fortnight have filled dams across much of the summer rainfall area in South Africa, but more rain is needed for some parts of the country.
Renewable Energy Council wants more action from Eskom
While reportedly heartened by President Jacob Zuma’s and Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan’s recent stated support for renewable energy expansion, the South African Renewable Energy Council (SAREC) has accused national power utility, Eskom, of failing to prioritise this expansion.
Good rain sees 72% jump in summer crop production forecast
The production estimate for South Africa’s summer crops over the 2016/17 season has risen 72,47%, due to widespread rains since the start of spring last year.
Rhino poaching numbers down in Kruger, but spiking elsewhere
There has been a notable decline in rhino poaching incidents in South Africa’s national parks, but poachers might be shifting their focus to private owners.
