Agrichemicals
EPA tightens rules on DCPA
Restrictions follow red alert about weedkillers containing chemical, and ban in US.
Ravensdown lift prices on key fertiliser products
International demand and supply dynamics continue to drive upward trends, company says.
Market volatility cited for fertiliser price lift
Ballance Agri-Nutrients charges more for some of its products after market takes ‘unexpected turn’.
Ballance trials fixed-price nitrogen scheme
Six-month contracts aim to build in some certainty for both farmer and supplier.
EPA issues red alert for herbicide
Serious concerns about effects on unborn children prompt warning to stop using DCPA.
Ballance forgoes rebates again this year
Fertiliser co-op prioritises debt reduction and ‘passing on cost savings to customers through the year’, says chair.
PGW retail sales drag down earnings and profit
Group cites austerity as it reports 80% reduction in net profit for 2024.
NZ to review DCPA use after the US issues emergency ban
United States authorities have banned the use of the herbicide chemical DCPA, effective immediately, over concerns about harm to unborn babies.
Ravensdown foresees drop in fertiliser demand
Plans afoot to shutter factory as co-op predicts fall in volumes.
Bigger drones rise to meet crop-spraying challenge
FAR to take a closer look as larger tanks and sharper tech make the airborne machines an option.
A debate that’s more fiction than fact
Some of the attacks on ag chemicals defy belief, writes Alan Emerson.
Estate brews bio defence against pests
A vast Brazilian estate develops its own bio-pesticides in its on-farm bio-reactor.
EPA gives thumbs down to glyphosate review
The EPA declined glyphosate review citing insufficient new evidence on toxicity, aligning with global regulatory assessments on chemical safety.
Safety cannot be sacrificed for speed
The EPA responds to criticism of the time taken to assess hazardous substances applications.