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Agronomist
Agronomists investigate field crop problems and develop new and improved growing methods for higher yields or better quality. This includes crops such as corn, maize, grain sorghum, peanuts, sunflower, cotton, sugar-cane, potatoes and forage.
What they do:
· provide information about plant diseases, weed killers and the biological control of insect pests
· advise farmers about crop rotation, fertilisers, field drainage and irrigation
· may become manufacturers’ representatives and show farmers the most effective uses for new products
· may travel locally or to neighbouring countries to help emerging farmers increase their food production by means of new techniques
· may work on developing new types of grains, legumes and grasses that will increase and improve food production and help replenish the soil at the same time
Where to study:
Universities: UCT, UFS, UKZN, NMMU, UL, UZulu, UP
Universities of Technology: TUT
College: Lowv, Ceda, Potch
FET College: Malu,
Companies to work for:
Various research institutes of the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Land Affairs and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, manufacturers of fertilisers, weed-killers and agricultural implements, seed and plant producers, educational institutions, co-operatives, self-employment (consultations)
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