NZ Catchment Groups Thrive with ‘Source to Sea’ Approach
The most successful catchment groups in NZ are those that have 'a source to sea' approach.
Agriculture is back in fashion, says the head of Massey University’s Institute of Agriculture & Environment, Professor Peter Kemp.
He says although agriculture was never really out of fashion it is now definitely back in its rightful place with good student numbers at the university and great support from industry.
“This is a brilliant evening -- a great event where students, staff and industry celebrate the success of top students. It’s amazing compared with those at many universities…. Usually it’s just shake hands and give out a certificate, whereas having the industry involved adds a whole different dimension to it.”
Kemp says it is now widely recognised that there are good jobs out there for ag graduates. Despite the GFC and other ups and downs in the primary sector, people realise agriculture is a lot more stable than some thought it was.
The awards event grows yearly with more sponsors and more awards.
A notable award was for the best video promoting Massey to new students, sponsored by Rural News Group and won by Sam Tipping. He shot video over a year, including sporting events, field trips and activities the ag students take part in.
The award was presented by Rural News Group reporter Peter Burke, who said the video gives a great insight into life at Massey and will encourage students to take up ag related courses. The video was played at the awards dinner and drew a lot of laughs and positive feedback.
Fonterra executive René Dedoncker is leaving the co-operative later this year to lead Australian agribusiness Elders.
Alliance Group and the Southland Stags rugby team have joined forces in a partnership that will see the the meat co-operative's farmgate brand feature on players' team kits and replica jerseys.
Fonterra's plan to expand its organic programme to the South Island is being well received by farmers, the co-op says.
Voting has started for the renewal of DairyNZ's milksolids levy.
The most successful catchment groups in NZ are those that have 'a source to sea' approach.
Associate Agriculture Minister and Manawatu dairy farmer Andrew Hoggard says the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiated with India is not a bad deal and his party, Act, will support it when it goes before Parliament.

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