LIC semen probe results to be made public
The result of two probes into the supply of bad sire semen to over 1100 LIC farmer customers will be made public next month.
A survey showing that the public care about waterways is no surprise, says DairyNZ.
The results from the Colmar Brunton survey reinforces that all kiwis care deeply about New Zealand.
DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle says “we believe so strongly that kiwis care about waterways that we’re starting a movement, where the vision is clear – we want all new Zealanders to do their bit to look after rivers, lakes and beaches and you can find out more at thevisionisclear.co.nz”
The nation-wide Colmar Brunton poll was conducted for Fish & Game New Zealand in December.
It found that pollution of rivers and lakes is worrying New Zealanders more than any other issue.
People were asked how concerned they were about a range of issues, including the cost of living, health system, child poverty and water pollution.
Pollution of rivers and lakes was the top concern, with 82% saying they are extremely or very concerned about the issue. Only 4% said they were not that concerned.
Dairy has an important role to play, as about 15% of New Zealand’s streams run through dairy farms.
“And dairy farmers have been doing their bit, with 97% of waterways on a dairy farm fenced off from stock, and significant work to put in riparian margins and wetlands. Farmers over the last ten years have also been significantly investing in effluent management systems that work with the land and DairyNZ continues to invest millions of dollars into research, science and technology that will look after our waterways, says Mackle.
“Claims that intensified farming contributes to water quality declines are both accurate and misleading. The reality is that all types of land use contribute to water quality – and that farming, whether it’s vegetables, fruit, beef, sheep, dairy, deer or even wine – must all work together to make sure waterways are protected.
“The most polluted rivers actually run through urban centers, and this is where the public can do their bit too.
“Farmers, industry and businesses who don’t prioritise looking after waterways, should be held accountable” says Mackle.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.