Friday, 25 January 2013 12:17

Nitrate levels ‘must be re-examined’

Written by Pamela Tipa

font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

The Fonterra Shareholders' Council, which represents the cooperative's 10,500 Farmer Shareholders, said it was important for regional councils to work closely with affected farmers and re-examine nitrate level targets following the announcement by Ravensdown and Ballance to suspend the sale and use of Dicyandiamide (DCD) treatment on farm.

The decision was prompted after minimal levels of the nitrate inhibiter were found in dairy product samples and while its presence poses no health risk the suspension of its use is seen by all parties as a pragmatic, proactive move.

Shareholders' Council chairman, Ian Brown: "Fonterra Farmers and regional councils have been working hard to develop plans for reducing nitrate levels and greenhouse gas emissions on farm and DCD was identified as an efficient way of achieving these.

"The outcome is disappointing for all stakeholders and will affect the ability of around 400 farmers to meet the nitrate level targets which were set based on the ongoing use of DCD - targets they have been working hard to meet.

"We are confident that regional councils and all stakeholders will continue to work closely with Fonterra and our affected farmers in order to review the targets."

More like this

Common sense

OPINION: City and regional councils have been put on notice - stop using extreme climate forecasting scenarios that can drive unnecessary costs onto ratepayers.

Federated Farmers: Rural Voices Must Shape Reform

Certainty and a clear understanding of the needs of rural communities is a critical outcome in the series of government reforms that are taking place at present.

Editorial: Credit where it's due

OPINION: While farmers are busy and diligently doing their best to deal with unwanted gasses, the opponents of farming - namely the Greens and their mates - are busy polluting the atmosphere with tirades of hot air about what farmers supposedly aren't doing.

Fonterra on track to deliver $1bn capital

Fonterra remains on track to deliver around $1 billion of capital to farmer shareholders and unit holders in two years.

Editorial: In perspective!

OPINION: More and more farmers around the country are doing the right things in regard to environmental management.

Featured

Carrfields Marks 50 Years as Rural Health Programme Grows

Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

Taupiri Farmers Chase Ownership After Awards Success

For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.

West Otago Farmer Luke Kane Wins Rabobank 2026 Prize

West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.

Editorial: Hunting Policy Misses The Mark

OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.

Timaru-Bred Bull Takes Out 2026 Mahoe Trophy

An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.

Ballance Urges Farmers to Plan Ahead for El Niño

With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.