NW farmers rally around fellow farmer who lost 65 cattle to lightning
Victor Badenhorst, who lost nearly 50% of his cattle herd after it was struck by lightning, was at a loss for words when a herd of 50 cattle were handed over to him at the Gerdau sale pens.
Organic vs GM: Aussie farmers square up in court
A landmark court case is currently underway in Perth, Australia, with an organic farmer suing his neighbour for loss of income after his property was allegedly contaminated by genetically modified canola.
Animal disease warning for NW farmers
The heavy rains in the North West have brought about an increase in livestock diseases.
Deadly driver’s sentencing postponed
The sentencing of the truck driver who collided with a goods train, killing 24 seasonal farm workers in July 2012, will be handed down on June 20, according to African Eye News Service.
Limpopo residents warned about rabies
The department of health has issued a warning to residents of Limpopo to seek help if bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal.
Binnie succeeds Boëttger as Sappi CEO
Multinational pulp and paper company Sappi Limited has announced that its current chief financial officer, Steve Binnie, will replace Ralph Boëttger as company CEO as of 1 July.
Milk imports down amid weak rand
The weakened rand has resulted in an increase in the imported dairy price and consumers can subsequently expect to pay more for milk.
Southern and western Free State still in drought’s grip
While some farmers in the Free State have renewed hope for the season after the widespread rain at the beginning of February, those south and west of Bloemfontein are still struggling.
Farmers expected to buy older-priced machinery as rand weakens
General rains have fallen in many of the summer cropping areas over the past two weeks, said the SA Agricultural Machinery Association (SAAMA) chairperson Callie Human, in a press release.
Protection of agricultural products
Members of the public have less than a month to submit comments to government regarding the protection of agricultural products with geographical indicators.
Early summer planting figures
According to the Crop Estimates Committee’s latest figures, an estimated 1 571 500ha white maize had been planted in the 2013/14 season compared to the 2012/13 season’s 1 617 200ha - a 2,83% decrease. An estimated 1 139 000ha of yellow maize had been planted, 2,15% below the previous season’s 1 164 000ha.
What Agri SA expects from government
Prior to the state of nation address due to take place on 13 February and with political parties gearing up for the general election, Agri SA has released a statement reminding political leaders about the sector’s potential to further contribute towards development. It also highlights areas of vulnerability and offers solutions.
