Watch: Arable farmers focus on international issues

Around 300 arable farmers recently gathered at Lincoln University for the Foundation for Arable Research's annual conference with a focus on "growing sustainable futures".

FAR board chairman and Canterbury cropping farmer David Birkett says he believes despite some challenging years, the industry has plenty to offer.

"We think there's a lot of opportunity there for the arable industry, so it's making sure we utilise and maximise those opportunities. I think there's still a good future and a lot of that will be around our seed production."

The conference included discussions on genetic technology, including gene editing, crop disease management and biosecurity and future foods.

Birkett said that when it was first established FAR's focus was on agronomy or "how to grow crops better".

While agronomy still a major focus, attention has shifted to addressing climate change, regulations and a changing global market.

Video made with the support of New Zealand On Air.