Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
Having walked away with a Fieldays Innovation Award and a useful cheque back in June, Springarm Products has recently signed a sole marketing agreement with Dannevirkebased Metalform.
Probably best known for its Tow and Fert system, the company will sell the clever product to farmers, landowners and lifestylers, who will recount many tales of dealing with broken water trough valves, caused by all types of livestock.
In the case of the Springarm, as the name suggests, an integral spring in the float arm deflects rather than breaking, saving water, time, money and frustration. It was conceived by farm manager Ric Awburn while he was standing at an empty trough one evening watching the cows nudging the ballcock and ultimately snapping the arm. He thought, “if only the arm could give a little”.
Fast forward to two years later to a durable and reliable ballcock arm that is easy to install on all types of valves and a savior to all livestock owners.
The European Union Ambassador says the new free trade agreement (FTA) between the bloc and New Zealand will bring significant benefits to both parties.
Less Wellington bureucracy and more local, on-farm common sense was the focus of recent meetings held in South Canterbury as part of the Government's National Woolshed tour program.
'A lot of interest and positive responses' appears to be the way farmers are viewing the Government's initiative to hold a series of woolshed meetings around the country.
A Southland farming leader wants the regional council to delay a proposed regional rates hike, much of which is intended to fund flood protection works.
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) says access to personal banking services in rural communities is fundamental to promoting outcomes that benefit Kiwi consumers.
A group set up to boost education and promotion of wool says it has made positive strides during the first year of its three-year strategy.
OPINION: Canterbury milk processor Synlait is showing no sign of bouncing back from its financial doldrums.
OPINION: It seems every bugger in this country can get an award these days.