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DairyNZ says it is hearing of several cases of nitrate poisoning in the Waikato region, with several cow deaths.
Nitrate poisoning is caused by high nitrate levels in feed and usually occurs in late autumn or winter, particularly during a flush of growth after a dry period.
In an email to Waikato farmers, DairyNZ regional leader Waikato Wilma Foster outlined key factors to reduce of nitrate poisoning in herds.
• Test grass for nitrate levels – you can get kits from your local vet clinic. Test each break.
• Feed supplement first before feeding high nitrate feeds – this reduces the eating speed of cows.
• Feed ‘at risk’ pastures/crops in the afternoon on a sunny day – sunshine helps break down the nitrate levels, avoid these paddocks on cloudy days.
• Check the animals 1-2 hours after you put them on a new break.
• Call a veterinarian at the first signs of trouble.
One person intimately involved in the new legislation to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA) is the outgoing chief executive of the Ministry for the Environment, James Palmer, who's also worked in local government.
DairyNZ’s latest Econ Tracker update shows most farms will still finish the season in a positive position, although the gap has narrowed compared with early season expectations.
According to the New Zealand Dairy Statistics 2024/25 report, New Zealand dairy farmers are achieving more with fewer cows.
Milksolids levies paid by dairy farmers over the past six years have generated nearly $3 billion in value, according to an independent review.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown is urging dairy farmers to participate in the 2026 Levy vote, to be held early next year.
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