Shade Project and Apprenticeship Program Boost Summer Production for Farmer Focus
Summer has flown by in the blink of an eye, possibly due to a slow start to the season or taking my holiday in the middle instead of the end. However, the real reason for the fast-paced summer is the multitude of projects and commitments on the farm.
The sow shade experiment from last year is progressing well, thanks to funding from BQP for experimental approaches on several farms. It’s clear that investing in good-quality materials for shades is essential for reusing them in following seasons and avoiding a throwaway culture.
Furthermore, a new BQP trial on water treatment has commenced, focusing on breeding units where water hygiene has been overlooked compared to growing farms. Implementing hydrogen peroxide disinfectant in our water pipelines is one step towards improving overall water system hygiene.
On a personal note, I have been mentoring three young students interested in a career in agriculture this summer. It’s encouraging to see the next generation showing interest in our industry, although it also highlights the increasing complexity of farming practices.
Overall, the summer has been a whirlwind of farm projects, from shade experiments to water treatment trials, and mentoring young aspiring farmers. It’s a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of agriculture and the importance of adapting to new challenges.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.