ARC and Grain SA Host Farmer-Focused Research Workshop in Ottosdal

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has partnered with Grain SA/Graan SA for the second leg of a series of farmer-focused research workshops. The latest session took place today at the Ottosdal Country Club, bringing together scientists, agricultural experts, and local farmers.

The workshop focused on practical solutions for key challenges in grain production. ARC scientists shared research findings and recommendations on sustainable grain production practices, strategies to manage insect resistance, and the growing threat of Goss’s Wilt in maize.

Goss’s Wilt, a bacterial disease that affects maize crops, has been spreading in several production areas in South Africa. Scientists highlighted detection methods and effective management strategies to limit its impact on yields. The session emphasized the importance of early identification and integrated crop management.

Another key theme was insect resistance, especially with pests adapting to genetically modified crops. Researchers provided updates on resistance monitoring programs and offered practical guidelines to help farmers slow resistance development through crop rotation, refuge planting, and integrated pest management.

Sustainable grain production also took center stage. Presenters outlined soil health practices, precision farming technologies, and water-efficient strategies that improve productivity while conserving natural resources. Farmers were encouraged to adopt practices that balance profitability with long-term sustainability.

Workshops like this form part of a broader drive to ensure that agricultural research translates into tangible benefits at farm level. By bringing science directly to farmers, the ARC and Grain SA aim to strengthen decision-making, improve resilience against pests and diseases, and boost productivity across the grain sector.

The next legs of the workshop series are expected to continue engaging farmers across different grain-growing regions. Each session is tailored to local challenges, ensuring that farmers gain relevant insights that can be applied immediately in their operations.

This partnership between the ARC and Grain SA reflects a shared commitment to supporting South Africa’s grain producers with research-based knowledge that drives innovation and sustainability in the sector.