Researchers hope to get approval for a trial to grow genetically modified ryegrass outdoors. Photo: https://www.pggwrightson.co.nz/Products/Product-Category/Seed/Ryegrass
A round up of the week's primary sector news from the RNZ rural news team.
Lots happening in the tech and science sector. Researchers are hoping to get approval from the Environmental Protection Agency to trial growing genetically modified ryegrass outdoors, the first of its kind in over a decade due to the highly regulated nature of GMO research. New technology using lasers and artificial intelligence software is helping growers get on top of their weeding, without the need for environmentally harmful agrichemicals. Read more here.
Map & Zap uses AI software to detect unwanted weed species from amidst pasture. Photo: Supplied
A new pilot programme, called Wool Dynamics, aims to teach university architecture and design students all about the wonders of wool. Meanwhile, Lincoln University hopes to maximise gains from a 2800 panel solar farm its building, by planting crops like blueberries and other vegetable crops between the rows. Read more here.
Lincoln University is building a solar farm with 2800 panels. Photo: befunky.com
Over in horticulture, fruit and veggie prices have had their biggest drop in over 60 years, dropping 16% in the past year - the biggest recorded falls since Stats NZ records began. Hawke's Bay horticultural sector needs at least $410 million additional funding to fully recover from Cyclone Gabrielle, a new report shows. Read more here.
