Caxton Magazines
On your own? You’re at risk
Small-scale farmers who belong to organised structures are at a distinct advantage.
New land claims process not the answer – Agri SA
Re-opening the land restitution process is not the answer to deal with issues such as addressing the legacy of the dispossession of land from the Khoi and the San people, according to Dr Theo de Jager, Agri SA deputy president.
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.
12 ways to protect the land
STEP 8: Protect breeding sites.
Findings of the long awaited land audit released
According to the much anticipated and delayed audit of agricultural land in South Africa, the state owned 22% of the land while 78% was in private ownership.
Watch out for powdery mildew
There are now two species of powdery mildew which attack tomatoes in South Africa. The most common is Leveillula taurica. The spores don’t need water to germinate and it is therefore a problem in greenhouses and in lands in dry areas or seasons.
Gun owners warned about license renewal pitfall
The South African Hunters and Game Conservation Association has warned owners of firearms used for self-protection to ensure that they apply for the renewal of licenses issued in terms of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, at least 90 days before the licenses were due to expire.
Proven Mango success
Rénald Radley runs 30ha of mango orchards on Radley Estate. Lindi van Rooyen spoke to him about producing quality mangos through careful pruning and inducing drought.
Good husbandry is the solution
Tilapia are hardy, but survival is one thing and fast growth another – and in culture units poor performance is invariably due to poor husbandry.
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:
SONA leaves agricultural issues unaddressed
Although President Zuma was clear in his State of the Nation Address that agriculture and rural development remain high on the government’s agenda, his reference to the need for dialogue with role players in the industry, especially in light of the recent labour unrest, is indicative of a lack of shared vision regarding the future of agriculture.
The true value of goats – 1
Modern goat breeds offer many opportunities for value adding and are a reliable way of making a good profit, explains Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Compassion for Animals
Animals are a beautiful part of God's creation. They are dependent on our kindness and compassion for their well-being. I believe animals have basic rights and want to talk for those who cannot talk for themselves.
Fiduciary responsibilty
The fiduciary responsibility carried by market agents remains the most crucial requirement of their relationship with producers.
Clover to increase milk price
Dairy farmers delivering milk to Clover can look forward to an increase in the producer price for milk from 1 March 2013.
Boran’s rising popularity in the Eastern Cape
Boran farmer, Johannes van Rensburg, says that the commitment of individuals advances the breed.
Model tractor collecting – ‘A delightful disease’
The old saying that the only difference between men and boys is the price of their toys was apparent at the latest SA Model Tractor Association (SAMTA) gathering in Bothaville. Annelie Coleman spoke to collectors about the passion of model tractor collecting and the joy it brings them.
Northern Cape grazing shortage critical
The lack of grazing in large parts of the Northern Cape is becoming serious, according to an Agri Northern Cape report.
No lay-offs yet in the Eastern Cape
Organised agriculture in the Eastern Cape told farmers to recover from the shock of the 52% increase in the minimum wage for farm workers before making decisions.
Fat flies around imported chips
Imports of frozen French fries knocked local processors, with South Africa’s largest processor reportedly suffering a drop in sales.
