Not to cast aspersions on previous office holders but such is the importance of the primary sector to New Zealand the appointment was overdue considering the last agricultural scientist in the position was Dr Ted Bollard in the 1980s.
Dr Brent Clothier comes with an impressive pedigree. Last year he was recognised for his lifetime achievement at the Science NZ National Awards. He was made a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1994 in light of his outstanding research work and has been involved in key governance roles in the scientific community.
Clothier is an expert in soil and water science. It will be the expertise he and colleagues possess that the Government will be drawing on for policies designed to protect the country’s soil and water resources. As such his appointment is particularly apposite.
Gerard Hutching
Sticky question
Honey industry experts are baffled about how glyphosate residues got into about 22% of honey samples. It could be present in a hive feed supplement or bees have strayed into areas where the herbicide is present.
Data for dairy
Fonterra will be able to access huge amounts of data gathered and analysed in real time once it signs up to Microsoft’s new data centres in Auckland.
Farm revenue to tumble
Central North Island sheep and beef farmers face a 22% fall in revenue compared to last season because of lower lambing percentages and expectation of reduced prices for lamb, wool and cattle.
Ag scientist new Royal Society president
For the first time since the 1980s an agricultural scientist is taking over as president of the Royal Society. Dr Brent Clothier’s special area of study is soil and water science.
Seeds of success
New Zealand herbage seed is still in high demand though the sector has been experiencing volatility that is not related to covid-19. Tasmania is emerging as a strong competitor.
