From the Ground Up: Issue 120

Dr Scott Champion has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Foundation for Arable Research.

Congratulations to those arable farming families who excelled in the 2025 Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

Seed and Grain Readiness and Response Incorporated (“SGRR”) is a biosecurity entity for the arable sector. It was established in 2020 under the Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity (GIA). It is currently collecting levies to cover the costs of the two biosecurity incursions, black grass and fall armyworm. 

Want to have more say in FAR’s research priorities and activities? Get involved with your regional grower-led Arable Research Group (ARG). ARGs are a direct link between growers and FAR, providing feedback on regional issues, concerns and opportunities. Seven ARGs operate across the country, and right now they are all looking for new members.

Enroll now for Lincoln University's seed technology short course

The Government is moving to speed up processes to ensure faster access to new HSNO and ACVM products.

It was great to see 90 people at our NCRS maize field day last week. This day, along with a series of field events across the central North Island, introduced around 150 growers and industry reps to Jon Myhill and Kate Baker from the UK Maize growers Association. 

The Waikato Regional council is warning that any farmer harvesting or buying crops risks inviting one of the world’s most invasive pest plants onto their property – to their detriment. Velvetleaf, which is spread by machinery or via contaminated maize, is currently found on 105 properties in nine regions of the North Island: 61 in the Waikato, 20 in Auckland, 15 in Manawatū-Whanganui, three in Hawke’s Bay, two in Wellington, and one each in Northland, Taranaki, Gisborne and Bay of Plenty.

Dr Alison Stewart, Chief Executive of the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR), will step down from the role, which she has held for seven years, on 30 June 2025. Announcing her resignation, Alison says she has thoroughly enjoyed her time at FAR and will be sad to say goodbye to a sector that has impressed her immensely with its diversity, sustainability and resilience.