New South Wales, Australia
July 6, 2004
A record 60,000 hectares of canola
has been planted in the Moree, Narrabri, Gunnedah, Walgett, and
Coonamble districts this year, double the previous record of
30,000 hectares in 1991.
New South Wales Agriculture's
Moree District Agronomist, Stephanie Belfield, said price,
improved varieties and better production techniques had combined
to make canola an attractive option for growers needing a cash
crop after two or three years of drought.
"Ideal sowing conditions saw many
growers choose canola over chickpeas, which require a higher
level of management due to the risk of Ascochyta," Ms Belfield
said.
"Research has shown that the
performance of new canola varieties and hybrids is much
improved, compared to varieties available even five or six years
ago. High yield, better oil content, and acceptable levels of
disease resistance are common traits in modern varieties. Yields
of 1.5 tonnes per hectare are common, with some farmers
achieving yields of 2.5 tonnes per hectare." |