Conrad Smith: Farming and sport share similar demands
The challenges of high-performance sport and farming are not as dissimilar as they may first appear.
A selection of science topics will feature at the regional forums, free to farmers, with DairyNZ staff summarising key research.
Session one, ‘Are you making money from milk or milk from money?’ will look at the results of DairyNZ’s farm systems research into the profitability of marginal milk (the milk produced after fixed costs are paid). In response to debate around which farming system is most profitable, DairyNZ has assessed the cost of marginal milk from data analyses and farm systems research. The findings will be presented to help farmers consider marginal milk in their decision making.
The second session will look at how farmers can achieve better in-calf rates, look for cows that are the most efficient feed convertors, and ensure they have healthier, longer, more productive lives. Efficiency gains in herd fertility, health, and feed conversion, could see farmers collectively make more than $1 billion a year in additional profit.
Session three will focus on feed, drawing on research findings from the past five years. It will cover the story of genetic gain through ryegrass breeding; what is (or is not) behind problems with pasture persistence; the value of clover; and simple rules for successful pasture renewal. AgResearch staff will be on hand to explore exciting new grasses and legumes being developed using novel plant breeding techniques.
The final session on nutrients will outline how dairy farming is changing to maintain or improve the quality of ground and surface water. It will look at how farmers can prevent sediment, phosphorus and E. coli from entering waterways, and
the opportunities to reduce nitrate leaching from grazing animals. How reducing nutrient loss affects farm profit will also be discussed.
At the end of each forum, DairyNZ regional leaders will talk about the latest regional issues and news.
For more information and to register visit dairynz.co.nz/farmersforum.
DairyNZ Farmers’ Forums timetable
Each event will run from 9.30am-3pm
May 4 – Southland, Wallacetown Community Centre, 57 Dunlop Street, Waikiwi, Wallacetown (followed by an opportunity to visit the Southern Dairy Hub).
May 11 – Manawatu, Massey University No 4 dairy farm, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North.
May 16 – Lincoln, Ashley Dene Research & Development Station, 736 Bethels Road, Springston.
May 19 – Taranaki, Stratford War Memorial Hall, 55 Miranda St, Stratford.
May 25 – Waikato, Lye Farm, 219 Vaile Road, Newstead, Hamilton.
