The Vaalharts beef cattle crossbreeding project
Crossbreeding beef cattle is gaining ground, as SA farmers increasingly value high productivity and low production costs. Prof Michiel Scholtz, head of the Vaalharts Crossbreeding Programme, tells Wilma den Hartigh...
Fish farming – coping with heat
An increase in water temperature means a depletion in oxygen levels. How do tunnel-based fish farms cope with extreme heat and ensure that fish receive their required oxygen levels?
Propolis for aches and pains
In addition to honey, bees produce propolis, a sticky, resinous substance that can be used to treat a number of equine problems.
Buying a bull at an auction
Chief technician at the Agricultural Research Council’s Beef Cattle Improvement Scheme, Frans Jordaan, discusses the genetic-based guidelines for ensuring the best purchase at an auction.
Exercise your horse conveniently
Mechanical horse exercisers, from hot horse walkers to the latest programmable devices, offer many advantages over physically walking a horse or letting it loose in a paddock, says Dr Mac.
Chatting to pigeon fancier, Theo Mienie
Ace pigeon flier Theo Mienie recently retired from the sport after more than six decades. He spoke to Thomas Smit about the highlights of his career and offered advice to...
Boer goat stud reaps the rewards of data recording
Boer goat stud breeder Johan Boshoff uses production data as a valuable tool to breed a new generation of goats to take his herd, the breed, and the industry forward....
Aquaculture in 2015 – a review
The South African aquaculture industry continues to experience difficulty with the import and farming of certain species. In neighbouring countries, by contrast, the industry is flourishing.
5 reasons your horse refuses to drink water
A horse that refuses to drink will not only lose condition, it could dehydrate, writes Kim Dyson.
Let’s hear it for the reds!
Some dismiss red pigeons as "hawk feed", others have had great success racing them. Thomas Smit says colour is only skin deep.
Aloe vera improves a horse’s hoof growth
Aloe Vera has many beneficial properties. Plant it around the stables, suggests Kim Dyson.
Allow nature to select your best performing animals – Clayton Collette
SA Stud Book’s top smallstock breeder for 2015, Clynton Collett from Venterstad, plans to increase the performance of his Meatmaster stud through better selection based on reproductive performance.
Wauldby Dohne Merinos: on the veld for 68 years!
The legendary Wauldby Dohne Merino Stud from the Amabele area near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape was founded by Deemie Blaine in 1947. Mike Burgess visited Blaine’s grandson, Robbie, a...
Is showing for you?
To show a horse at top level you need aptitude, dedication and hard work, explains Kim Dyson.
Only use the best genetics – Hennie Viljoen
Top stud breeder Hennie Viljoen says farmers must use top genetics to increase productivity and profitability.
Bemer, does it work?
Despite controversy, using the Bemer to heal injured horses seems to be popular, says Dr Mac.
How to get the best from ryegrass pasture
New Zealand may be thousands of kilometres away from South Africa, but the dairy industries of both countries share similar challenges. Will Henson, agronomist from Agriseeds New Zealand, visited KZN...
Government’s approach towards aquaculture
The SA government’s misdirected approach towards aquaculture is clear, especially when compared with the situation in neighbouring countries.
Understanding Cushing’s disease
This ailment can cause laminitis and infertility. Outward signs are coarse hair and excessive thirst. Kim Dyson explains.
5 Cattle diseases that can kill your business
Veterinarian Dr Jan du Preez discusses the top five diseases that South African farmers should guard against to ensure that their cattle and their bottom-line are not negatively affected.
