Few very pertinent thoughts in from Gav in Canterbury

Last weeks big wind storm has damaged over 800 irrigators which could have a huge impact on production throughout the Canterbury region.

Many of the easy fixes have already been repaired but a number of the large units need parts from the USA and big delays are expected. I've heard of cases where the minimum expected time for repair is 9 weeks with others saying as far out as February 2014 before they're back up and running.

This will no doubt change the management for these areas of crop or pasture as the potential production is affected. With the forecast for a dry summer the areas most affected will have to be farmed as dry land for this season unless another option can be found. That means inputs will likely be reduced and yields will be lower.

Setting up a wheat crop to yield 14 T/Ha without a guarantee of water could lead to very poor grain quality at harvest time. Even the areas that will get the irrigation repaired mid season may still have to change the way these crops are managed to minimise moisture stress in the meantime.

Being able to change your plan early will ensure you can farm to the conditions and still optimise your crops potential for yield and quality.

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Thanks to Gavin for the great shots







Today (3rd October 2013) found this snippet from Fairfax NZ News on the potential cost to the Canterbury storm some weeks back.. It really puts it into perspective just the extent of the damage.



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