Communal farmer sets his sights higher with Brahman
Mike Ramagofu says small-scale farmers need the right breed for their specific conditions. He believes a breed can make or break an enterprise, especially in the case of communal farming. Peter Mashala reports.
Livestock Disease Trends (as informally reported by vets in South Africa) January 2013
Due to good rainfall in the summer rainfall areas and hot weather, numerous reports of internal parasites were received. Infestations were reported at:
Boran’s rising popularity in the Eastern Cape
Boran farmer, Johannes van Rensburg, says that the commitment of individuals advances the breed.
Breeding indigenous Ngunis in the Piketberg
Passionate about the Nguni, Hannes Eksteen runs three stud herds and maintains four Nguni ecotypes. He calves seasonally to coincide with fodder flow and keep stress factors down. Jay Ferreira reports.
Shepherding her flock to greener pastures
Renowned Dormer breeder Erika Hanekom’s ewes are known for their excellent maternal abilities. She spoke to Denene Erasmus about breeding sheep and farming in a profession dominated by men.
Livestock Disease Trends (as informally reported by vets in South Africa) December 2012
As a result of good rains and high summer temperatures, problems due to intestinal roundworms are increasing. Infestations were reported at:
Afrikaner cattle breed: Origins and future role
The Afrikaner cattle breed is a genetic gold mine for beef production in SA, says Pierre Fouché.
Taking the cream – Cappuccino men & their cows
Well-known farming company ZZ2 has taken the Pinzgauer breed to new heights. Part of its ethos is to support and educate new and emerging breeders. Chris Nel reports.
Wool profits for communal farmers
In Lunyaweni near Ugie in the former Transkei, a group of 42 determined communal farmers is generating significant income from its 5 000-plus flock of Merino-type sheep. Mike Burgess reports.
Blazing or grazing – the great fire debate
The grasslands of the African savannah depend on defoliation processes like fire and grazing to maintain plant vigour, increase cover and reduce rainfall-runoff. Prof Winston Trollope talks to Heather Dugmore about grazing and burning in managed rangelands.
Livestock Disease Trends (as informally reported by vets in South Africa) November 2012
A record number of vetinarary practices (50) reported this month, as well as three veterinary laboratories.
Tree lucerne: marvellous, but not miraculous!
The pioneer of tree lucerne in South Africa, Gavin Armstrong, warns that as the interest in this high-yield fodder crop grows, many suppliers are overcharging farmers for inferior plant material. The result may be disappointed buyers. Denene Erasmus reports.
