RIVERINA cropping farmers are holding out on an autumn break to boost confidence in the lead up to sowing.
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Burning of stubble paddocks has started and some growers have opted to sow by the calendar instead of waiting for rain.
RAIN ON THE WAY:
- Wagga can expect a late shower on Sunday with 80 per cent chance of 10 to 20mm
- Cootamundra has a forecast of 90 per cent chance of up to 20mm of rain on Sunday
We want our farmers to be as informed as possible when challenging times hit.
- Niall Blair
Meanwhile, new forecasting technology was announced by the NSW Government this week. The aim was to provide more detailed seasonal conditions forecasts.
Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair said the Enhanced Drought Indicator System (EDIS) draws on the latest remote sensing, satellite and climate data to provide a more detailed assessment of seasonal conditions.
“We want our farmers to be as informed as possible when challenging times hit,” Mr Blair said.
“This technology allows farmers to have more power and more certainty when making those on farm decisions.”
EDIS is powered by a new machine-learning platform, built by NSW DPI scientists, which combines many types of data gathered in overlapping timeframes to provide a more accurate picture of seasonal trends.
Mr Blair said the new report will include a drought indicator, powered by EDIS, which signals deteriorating conditions earlier than previously possible, giving farmers and regional communities more lead time to prepare.
“The app will allow farming communities and agronomists to ground-truth the state data,” he said.
Rural journalist with Fairfax media based in the Riverina.
Rural journalist with Fairfax media based in the Riverina.
