Comment – Don’t look out of the window (or over the hedge)
Whilst busy trading pictures of drought stricken areas (anywhere else in the UK other than here) with friends, it reminded me that we just can’t do a lot about the weather.
I was happily erecting my tent at the Groundswell Regenerative Farming Festival earlier this week, when I received a frantic call from home to say that not one, but three neighbours were mowing their meadows, and why weren’t we? Upon inspection of the relevant weather forecasts, plus observations of the slugs on the lawn that night, we agreed that holding back was the order of the day. Imagine my surprise to find 19mm in the gauge upon my return.
‘This is all well and good, telling us your usual rainfall inspired nonsense, Mr Editor, but whats the point?’ you shout. Simples, we are creatures of habit and seek comfort in our decision making. I daresay if I hadn’t been ‘going regen’ this week, the temptation to hook on the mower and crack on would have been too much.. Given the 50mm of rain since I left on Monday till this morning, sirs haymaking efforts would have been in vain. Sometimes it’s best to stick to your guns (& check the forecast).
Speaking of which, Junes wheelbarrow statistics are upon us, with 207mm for the month, this is the highest June rainfall since records began (2020) with the lowest recorded being 40mm in ’21. So there.
I did notice combines rolling down the east side and some modest stacks of barley straw against the A1, but I don’t suppose it’s a harvest to get too excited about yet. Plus with a spot wheat price somewhere just below £140 a tonne selling now isn’t that tempting.
Elsewhere AGCO and TAFE have dealt with their differences and agreed to stay out of court, have a look here for the full statements from AGCO and TAFE.
I was fascinated by this side by side trial in China of AI vs traditional farmers growing rice across c 66Ha. This is the second year of the trial, and pleasingly for a luddite such as myself, the farmers won. Although the main point is that AI can be used to support farmers decision making, not necessarily to replace it. Settle down everyone, AI wont be clipping the sheep or ‘wall gapping’ anytime soon.
Have a good week.
Andy
