Breakthrough in Facial Eczema research offers hope for New Zealand farmers
A breakthrough in the understanding of Facial Eczema (FE) in livestock could bring New Zealand closer to reducing the disease’s impact.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH by Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) has discovered a 'fat gene', providing a genetic explanation as to why some cows produce higher fat content in their milk than others, says Primary Industries Minister, Nathan Guy.
He says it was an example of another milestone being achieved through the Primary Growth Partnership programme, in this case the Transforming the Dairy Value Chain PGP programme, led by Dairy NZ and Fonterra.
"This is one of only a few cases worldwide where the underlying gene affecting differences in milk composition has been identified," Guy says.
It is one illustration of why PGP is such an important tool in boosting the productivity and profitability of our primary sector, says Guy.
The PGP aims to boost the productivity and profitability of New Zealand's primary sector through investment between government and industry.
MPI is now seeking applications for new Primary Growth Partnership programmes. Applications must be received by MPI by 12pm on Wednesday, June 25.
Visit: www.mpi.govt.nz
Australian dairy farmers supplying Fonterra are getting an opening weighted average milk price of A$8.60/kgMS for the new season or around NZ$9.26/kgMS - NZ74c less than New Zealand suppliers, based on the current exchange rate.
Taranaki veterinarian Dr Rob Mills is the new president of New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA).
Input costs can make or break a season for farmers and electricity is one of the largest expenses.
Zespri says global sales for the 2024-25 season topped $5 billion on the back of strong demand and market returns.
Massey University is returning to the Fieldays with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity.
Newly appointed National Fieldays chief executive Richard Lindroos says his team is ready, excited and looking forward to delivering the four-day event next month.