Winter-proof your farm
As we approach the winter months it’s important to be prepared for the challenges and uncertainties that come with unpredictable weather events.
TBFREE NEW Zealand is planning an aerial drop of 1080 this winter in Waipunga, near the Taupo-Napier highway.
The target is about 1659ha of Whirinaki Forest, home to North Island brown kiwi, whio, kaka and threatened native bats. The area includes private, government and Maori-owned land.
TBfree NZ quotes DOC senior ranger Dave Wills as saying some of New Zealand’s rarest bird and plant species will benefit from the pest kill, chiefly of possums, rats and stoats.
“DOC is working with TBfree New Zealand to ensure the best results possible for native wildlife,” says Wills.
“A wide range of other forest birds, trees and wildlife also stand to benefit from the knockback of predators like possums, rats and stoats.”
TBfree Hawke’s Bay committee chairman Dennis Mitchell says the “battle against bovine TB has been waged in Hawke’s Bay for 25 years and currently there are no infected cattle or deer herds in the region”.
“We seek to methodically [kill] pests, especially possums, which can sustain the disease in wildlife.
“Effective pest [killing] in our rugged bush is vital to protect farmed livestock and export markets.”
Dennis Ward, of Ngatapu Station, a farmer and hunter, also favours the operation.
“When you look at
the practicalities of 1080 in improving the quality
of life of our native species, it’s a no-brainer,” Ward says.
“People don’t appreciate that possums, stoats, ferrets and rats… decimate our native bird populations.”
Research shows 1080 benefits native birds and forests, he says. “The evidence has convinced me that it is the best method, particularly in rugged terrain like the Waipunga area, where ground [kills are] impractical.”
“It is amazing to see the bush come alive with native birds following a 1080 operation.”
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand's trade interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely.
New Zealand's red meat sector says it is disappointed by the United States' decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports.
OPINION: Farmers nationwide will be rubbing their hands with glee at the latest news from the Government about the RMA reforms.
Holstein Friesian NZ and Link Livestock have agreed on a strategic partnership to provide HFNZ members with comprehensive services from one of New Zealand's most respected dairy men.
Rural retailer Farmlands has launched a new casual clothing range available across 42 stores nationwide and through its online store.
OPINION: At last, a serious effort to better connect farmers and scientists.
OPINION: If you believe Maori Party president John Tamihere’s claim that “nothing dodgy” occurred at Manurewa Marae during the last…