Core Sampling

In 1999 the Department of Agriculture (DoA) set up a link with the New Zealand Wool Testing Authority (NZWTA) to be their accredited representatives to oversee the core sampling of Falkland Islands bales of wool. There are many benefits to local wool growers in having their wool cored locally. Mainly it opens up the opportunity to sell wool to a greater number of destinations, sell it in the international market place and gain a price for their product that is based on world market indicators, to rationalise wool freight logistics and to increase flexibility as to time of selling. Read more...  or Back to top

Farm Mapping

In March 2003, the Department of Agriculture began the Farm Resource Mapping project and employed a Farm Mapping Officer for the first time. This was set up to provide farmers with a tool to aid the management of their land. GPS units, outline farm maps and a tutorial on the process are available from the DoA A farm map with accurate fencelines, paddock sizes, etc. is a key tool for assisting in grazing management systems. Farmers can then use the information to plan and budget for new fencing and pasture and cropping works. Read more...  or Back to top

Laboratory

The Department of Agriculture has a large and well equipped laboratory and employs two laboratory staff. The laboratory at the DoA is responsible for the processing of all soil and animal feed samples. Read more...  or Back to top

Quality Falkland Wool
Accreditation Scheme

During the 1996/97 year, the Farmers Association, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture (DoA), introduced a quality assurance scheme for the wool industry. The aim of the voluntary scheme, Quality Falkland Wool (QFW), is to improve the quality of preparation of the national clip through the introduction of specific requirements for infrastructure in woolsheds, standards for preparation and packaging of the wool clip. The DoA acts as an independent body used for accreditation and inspection of the scheme and also provides advice and support to stencil holders. Read More...  or Back to top

Sheep Ultrasound
Pregnancy Diagnosis

Since 2002 the Department of Agriculture has been able to offer a Ewe Ultrasound Pregnancy Diagnosis (scanning) to farmers. Pictured right is Veterinary Officer, Zoe Luxton, pregnancy scanning sheep.

Worldwide, scanning is used as an important management tool. It allows producers to relatively accurately predict lambing percentage. These results are then used to alter or fine-tune management practises relating to nutrition, health and pasture use. This practise has therefore fitted neatly into the Farm Improvement Programme. Read More...  or Back to top