82 | New game changing varieties emerging Precision Spraying has rapidly become the largest operation of its kind in the area. Karen Phelps RURAL SERVICES » Precision Spraying / Central Seed Precision Spraying is helping South Otago farmers maximise their results from crops including new game changing varieties emerging such as the CONVISO® SMART system, which includes SMART KWS varieties of fodder beet that are tolerant to the broad-spectrum herbicide CONVISO® ONE. This unique combination allows farmers to eliminate weed competition, particularly during the crucial early growth stages, without damaging the crop, says Josh Perry from Precision Spraying. “Because CONVISO SMART has a specific chemical required to be used with the system we have had to ensure our equipment is cleaned between jobs,” he says. “CONVISO SMART has meant we can spray to control weeds in this area that we normally couldn’t control easily such as wild turnip and docks. We treated approximately 600 hectares with this system during the past season. It’s really impressive and the results have been great so far. I think it will take over and be the number one fodder beet in New Zealand.” Established in 2023 by Josh’s cousin Benji Perry and Cameron Miller, Precision Spraying has rapidly become the largest operation of its kind in the area. Josh says this scale gives it a distinct advantage in meeting farmers’ demands for timely service with its team of three full-time staff and one seasonal worker. “Farmers want a contractor who will get on farm quickly. That’s number one. So because we are a larger team we can offer speedy turnaround on jobs,” says Josh. The company’s fleet includes four Isuzu D-Max trucks, all built in-house and equipped with advanced Topcon X25 consoles. Josh says this technology enables the adoption of precision farming practices, lowering input costs while increasing machine automation and operational efficiency. Unlike standard setups, Precision Spraying runs seven sections on trucks instead of the typical five, allowing for more precise application and significantly less overspray. The company also employs Tabula technology for precise proof of placement, ensuring farmers receive accurate documentation of spray application. This attention to detail is part of what helps Precision Spraying treat between 25,000-30,000 hectares per year in the South Otago region including Clinton, Clydevale, Lawrence, Milton, Tapanui and Balclutha. Josh says the past season presented significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions. “I’d say we got trucks stuck over 100 times. It was incredibly wet. Crops were in the ground three or four weeks later than normal. Wind was another big factor further impacting the ability to spray,” says Josh. “So that meant we had to work longer hours and I have to commend our staff for doing whatever it took to get the job done for our clients. This season steady rain over January and February has helped the crops along and they will be looking pretty good going into winter grazing.” As Benji also owns Central Seed and Chemical, this creates valuable synergies for farmers requiring both spraying services and agricultural products. While operated as separate businesses, this connection offers added convenience for clients and means farmers are only supplied with what’s needed for the job bringing costs down by not having leftover chemicals at the end of season, says Josh. As members of Rural Contractors NZ, Precision Spraying maintains professional standards across its operations. The company also prioritises community involvement, supporting local organisations including the local collie club. Providing exceptional boom & handgun spraying services around South Otago and the surrounding areas 027 369 2412 Clinton Precision Spraying Ltd Central Seed & Chemicals SEED • CHEMICAL • ADVICE Contact Benji Perry 027 471 3017 ENGINEERING & METAL FABRICATON, MACHINING & HYDRAULICS SERVICES LOCATED IN CLINTON NZ 0274 157 014 | office@offroadengineering.co.nz | Westra st, Clinton, New Zealand
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=