September 17th, 2024
In a significant step towards adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, a new interactive digital tool has been launched for the benefit of apple and grape growers across New Zealand, according to Plant & Food Research.
This free resource aims to assist growers and prospective investors by shedding light on the potential risks and costs associated with common plant diseases under varying climate scenarios.
The big picture: The tool, named the Changing Climate: Disease Risk & Costs tool, is a product of collaborative efforts under the Our Land and Water National Science Challenge, funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). It empowers users to input their orchard or vineyard's location to assess the future risk of diseases like Apple Fire Blight, Grape Powdery Mildew, and Grape Botrytis.
Zoom in: Beyond identifying risks, the tool translates these risks into financial implications, providing a valuable resource for understanding and planning for the economic impact of climate change on orchard and vineyard management.
What they're saying: Mike Barley, the director of New Zealand agri-tech company HortPlus, describes the tool as "a portal into the future." He emphasises its role in climate adaptation planning, offering digestible information for those in the apple and wine-growing industries to foresee changes in plant disease risks and their cost implications.
Driving the news: The development of this innovative tool was made possible through a collaboration between HortPlus and several key partners, including Plant & Food Research, NIWA, The Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit, and Applied Research & Technologies. These partnerships have brought together expertise in disease models, climate models, economic modelling, and disease model reviews to create a comprehensive resource.
Why it matters: As climate change continues to present new challenges for the agriculture sector, tools like the Changing Climate: Disease Risk & Costs tool are crucial for enabling growers to make informed decisions. By providing insights into potential future scenarios, this tool aids in the proactive management of plant diseases, potentially saving significant costs and reducing risks for growers.