From the Ground Up: Issue 118, Spring

Welcome to the revised 2025 version of  The drying and storage of grain and herbage seed, first published in 1999.The book comprises six chapters that cover grain characteristics and their reaction to climate, the importance of seed moisture, the drying system, the storage environment, storage pests and their control, and construction considerations. These have been edited and updated by FAR staff and independent experts from the original chapters written by the late Murray Hill.

A new Arable Industry Code of Conduct will give New Zealand’s arable sector a clearer, more consistent way of doing business — helping strengthen relationships and confidence across the industry.

New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) has announced today that glyphosate residue limits for wheat, barley and oats for human consumption will stay at 0.1mg/kg. Restrictions will be introduced on permitted use.

Interest in the New Zealand Grown Grains logo is high, following its launch in Auckland earlier in October.

Farmers who save and replant legally protected cereal varieties can voluntarily declare their usage and pay a breeder royalty. The declaration system applies to all farm saved seed barley, and to farmer saved wheat if the resultant wheat crop does not pass through an end-point royalty collection agent. 

The Environmental Protection Authority (“EPA”) published a Notice of Direction Prohibiting the Use and Requiring Disposal of Chlorpyrifos Containing Substances in the New Zealand Gazette on 1 September 2025.

Growers are reminded to report any grass weeds that appear unfamiliar or could resemble black-grass (Alopecurus myosuroides). Early reporting remains one of our strongest tools for protecting the industry.

Welcome to the spring 2025 edition of From the Ground Up

The FAR Nominations and Remunerations Committee (NRC) is calling for nominations to fill four grower director positions on the FAR Board from 1 January 2026. 

FAR levy payers can apply for a grant to attend international industry-related conferences/workshops/events, etc. Find the guidelines here.