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Record canola plantings in the north west of News South Wales
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."

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