Keeping cyber attacks at bay
Fonterra says it takes the ongoing threat of 'adverse cyber action' extremely seriously.
Today's announcement of a further 25c drop in the current season forecast farmgate milk price is a "bitter pill" for farmers to swallow, says Fonterra Shareholders' Council chairman Duncan Coull.
The 2015-16 forecast farmgate milk price dropping from $4.15/kgMS to $3.90/kgMS is reflective of the current market conditions.
Coull says: "Farmers understand what the market realities are and continue to make adjustments where they can, but today's announcement, coming so close on the heels of January's 45 cent milk price reduction, will magnify the effects on our Farmers' businesses.
"This news is difficult for us to hear and for our co-op to give however, that it was provided in a timely manner at least lets us know exactly where we are placed and enables us to prepare accordingly.
"Farmers now need their co-op to drive the business hard, execute strategy, and deliver cash to them. In essence, farmers want to see the full benefits that the cooperative model offers and we will all be watching March's interim results with great interest.
"This current environment is no doubt placing added personal stress on farm so it's imperative we keep in touch with our neighbours, friends and families, and all support each other where we can.
"I also ask that farmers stay connected with their co-op and contact their local Shareholders Councillor if they have any questions, need advice, direction or support."
Among the regular exhibitors at last month’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, the one that arguably takes the most intensive preparation every time is the PGG Wrightson Seeds site.
Two high producing Canterbury dairy farmers are moving to blended stockfeed supplements fed in-shed for a number of reasons, not the least of which is to boost protein levels, which they can’t achieve through pasture under the region’s nitrogen limit of 190kg/ha.
Buoyed by strong forecasts for milk prices and a renewed demand for dairy assets, the South Island rural real estate market has begun the year with positive momentum, according to Colliers.
The six young cattle breeders participating in the inaugural Holstein Friesian NZ young breeder development programme have completed their first event of the year.
New Zealand feed producers are being encouraged to boost staff training to maintain efficiency and product quality.
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