New information for agrometeorologists

Under "New information for agrometeorologists" we mention relevant new web sites (before they become only routine links), data bases, software, CDs, trends, issues and other information in agrometeorology [Send items for inclusion to the Web Editor.]

Preserving biodiversity can be compatible with intensive agriculture — Last modified February 14, 2013 13:17

Preserving genetically diverse local crops in areas where small-scale farms are rapidly modernizing is possible, according to a Penn State geographer, who is part of an international research project investigating the biodiversity of maize, or corn, in hotspots of Bolivia, Peru and Mexico.

Scientists make breakthrough in predicting Asian monsoon rainfall — Last modified February 05, 2013 08:59

The amount of rainfall and number of tropical storms during the summer monsoon season greatly impact the agriculture, economy, and people in Asia. Though meteorologists and climate scientists have worked for years to develop helpful prediction systems, seasonal predictions of these two types of weather phenomena are still poor.

Commercial agriculture is 'most important driver' of deforestation — Last modified November 26, 2012 14:28

An international team claims to have the most comprehensive assessment yet of the drivers behind deforestation and forest degradation in the developing world. The assessment, which confirms agriculture as the main driver of deforestation, could help international organizations develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions.

Food benefit and climate warming potential of nitrogen fertilizer uses in China — Last modified November 20, 2012 09:03

Food benefit and climate warming potential of nitrogen fertilizer uses in China.

When the chips are down: potato, maize and rice crop yields set to fall — Last modified November 01, 2012 18:46

From the Guardian. Farmers will need to grow different crops as rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall lead to a drop in yields of maize, rice and wheat in developing countries, according to agricultural experts.

Are droughts harming the world's grasslands? — Last modified September 21, 2012 08:51

Grasslands cover around 40% of land on Earth but their extent and health have both declined in recent years. Now, using a new technique – the perfect-deficit approach – a team from the US and Hungary has found that an increase in extreme droughts may be the culprit for grasslands' declining productivity.

Fertilizer and water use key to food production and sustainability — Last modified September 07, 2012 11:21

Human demand for food is expected to double by 2050, as population rises and diets become more meat and calorie heavy. Agriculture is already degrading the environment so thoughts have turned to "sustainable intensification" – increasing yields on underperforming landscapes while decreasing the overall environmental impact of agriculture.

Public supports programs helping farmers adapt to climate change — Last modified September 03, 2012 16:01

A survey conducted by Michigan State University reveals strong public support for government programs to assist farmers to adapt to climate change.

Scientists develop new carbon accounting method to reduce farmers' use of nitrogen fertilizer — Last modified August 20, 2012 09:28

Scientists develop new carbon accounting method to reduce farmers' use of nitrogen fertilizer.

Upgrade old irrigation systems first, say scientists — Last modified August 07, 2012 13:23

Farmers are responding to the growing problem of water scarcity by upgrading their irrigation systems. But a study in Environmental Research Letters (ERL) shows that while new irrigation systems save water, the only sure way to also save energy is to prioritize the replacement of the oldest, most inefficient systems. Although the study focused on Australian agriculture, its authors say the results should apply elsewhere too.