Handling sheep with care
I wrote an article in the May 6th issue of Rural News about how when set-stocking ewes for lambing, they need spreading lightly - and topped up with cattle after the lambs have dropped.
The Bovine Tuberculosis Pest Management Plan is under review and farmers are urged to have their say.
Since the start of 2000, New Zealand has spent $1.2 billion fighting bovine TB and killing the pests -- especially possums – that spread the disease.
Independent chair of the plan governance group (PGG) Chris Kelly says to protect the health of farmed cattle and deer and our good international trade reputation in animal products, it is critical we maintain low TB rates.
“Equally important are the biodiversity gains achieved by pest [control] funded via the national
TB plan.”
“This year, we need to decide how we continue to do this work. To ensure we get it right, I urge dairy, beef and deer farmers and other interested parties to get involved in the review consultation process. We want to hear people’s views on what the future plan should include.”
During June and July, review workshops will be held in about 30 locations to discuss proposals and get feedback for later analysis. The consultations will begin late June with the release of a public discussion document. Limited farmer surveys will also be done to help get a full range of farmgate views. Submissions will close on July 31.
The discussion document will be seeking feedback on whether the programme to eradicate TB should be faster or slower or kept the same. Views will also be sought on containing the disease at current or lower levels.
Says Kelly, “Because the programme is a significant cost to farmers we want them to understand the issues. Bovine TB has the potential to drastically impact New Zealand cattle farming and international trade. We need to ensure we remain committed and deal with the issue in the smartest way with the ultimate goal being eradication.”
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Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
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OPINION: The Federated Farmers rural advocacy hub at Fieldays has been touted as a great success.