Why some family members avoid succession planning
To understand why the members of a family business might be reluctant to initiate succession planning, it’s important to consider the family’s life stage at the time of succession, writes Trevor Dickinson.
Is fire really the answer to bush encroachment?
A 10-year study conducted in Kruger National Park by scientists from South African National Parks, Stellenbosch University and Harvard University has shown that high-density fires do not have a long-term effect on the scourge of bush encroachment.
Five devices set to revolutionise agriculture
Justin Platt, founder and CEO of regenerative farming companies Zylem SA and RegenZ, looks at the key technologies affecting agriculture.
Farm attacks: Security expert outlines a proactive plan
Laurence Palmer, an independent security consultant, outlines practical steps that South African farmers and farmworkers can take to avoid becoming victims of farm attacks, and to protect themselves if attacked.
Macadamia production: cost-cutting ideas to balance falling prices
South Africa’s relatively young macadamia industry has a long way to go to establish optimal farming practices and efficiencies. However, with nut prices falling, producers need to focus on cost savings that will balance inputs with output. Lindi Botha reports on key areas that macadamia farmers should be paying attention to.
Webinar: The importance of skills development in primary agriculture
Farmer’s Weekly hosted an informative webinar focussing on the significance of skills development in primary agriculture. For those who were unable to attend the live session or wish to revisit the discussions, you can watch the recording now.
Top pig farmer takes full advantage of technology
New technologies, big data and top-of-the-range genetics are becoming increasingly important aspects of profitable pig farming. However, these advancements don’t come cheap, placing them out of reach of many small-scale producers. Pig farmer CP Kriek spoke to Lindi Botha about tech solutions suited to Africa.
Cabbage: an ancient, nutritious crop more popular than ever
Cabbage, which is native to western Europe, has been cultivated for at least 3 000 years and is today a major crop worldwide, says Bill Kerr.
Profit: an unreliable concept that results in confusion, or worse
Profit is a concept that cannot be trusted. It’s difficult to calculate and provides an ideal way of manipulating figures, so beware of those who habitually use the word, warns Peter Hughes.
Irrigation technology is making production cheaper
Recent advances in irrigation technology are making it easier for farmers to produce more food, while remaining environmentally friendly.
Merino: why a bigger flock is better on the Mpumalanga Highveld
The Mpumalanga Highveld was once the wool capital of South Africa, but rampant stock theft over the years has largely decimated the industry here. However, while some farmers are moving away from sheep farming, Johan Steyn has plans to expand his flock. He spoke to Lindi Botha about his success with Merinos.
This is how carbon policies can prevent food insecurity
The race to net-zero carbon emissions has implications for agriculture and food security. Whether the outcome will be positive or negative for society, the environment and farmers, depends largely on how government formulates emissions policies. Lindi Botha reports on why agriculture’s role should not be underestimated.
