IN THE year 2000, the 805ha (270ha effective) Whatawhata Hill Country Research Farm run by AgResearch was providing no more than 2% return on capital. There were significant erosion problems and its dense, 20km network of streams carried sediment, nitrogen and E.coli to the Waikato River. What remnants of native woodland remained had low biodiversity and bare ground underneath from animal access.

A SUGGESTION in Rural News’ sister paper Dairy News that calf rearers should blood test to check colostrum intake has some merit, but needs refining, says specialist calf vet, Bas Schouten.

RURAL NEWS’ article ‘Rangitata TB came from West Coast’ (October 22) reports TB Free’s statement that two recent outbreaks of TB in South Canterbury cattle were “a West Coast strain.”

ANDREW COOMBE grew up with Massey Ferguson on his family’s farm at Te Aroha. Now he and his wife Anita own two dairy farms in Otorohanga and three MF tractors.

A REAR-MOUNTED mower uses a new middle attachment to cut even wider, says the New Zealand importer.

THE HEAD of China’s largest dairy company says Fonterra’s false botulism scare underscores the importance of food safety.

EUROPE’S SECOND largest dairy co-op Arla Foods is launching a marketing blitz to promote its butter and cheese in Australia and New Zealand.

FEDERATED FARMERS Dairy chairman Willie Leferink says he can understand Japanese dairy farmers’ opposition to free trade.

FONTERRA STAFF unhappy with food and safety standards in the supply chain can now take their concerns directly to the top – without the fear of being victimised.

WANGANUI GARDEN CENTRE assistant Kelly Jean Kerr (pictured) wins 2013 Young Horticulturist of the Year and second place getter Wellington collections specialist Eliza Whalley also wins the AGMARDT Market Innovation Project.

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