MSA triumph
OPINION: Methane Science Accord, a farmer-led organisation advocating for zero tax on ruminant methane, will be quietly celebrating its first foray into fertiliser co-operative governance.
Fertiliser co-op Ravensdown says it is working with the emergency services as a fire at its manufacturing facility in Hornby, Christchurch is brought under control.
“All staff are safe and no injuries have been reported,” said Greg Campbell, chief executive of Ravensdown.
Fifty-seven people work at the plant. Emergency services are currently in attendance.
“The fire started at the eastern end of our storage store but it’s too early to know the cause. We will be working closely with an investigation team to identify the cause.”
“Our staff have been outstanding and have followed our procedures to ensure the site is safe for the emergency response team. I also want to thank emergency services for their response.”
“We acknowledge any inconvenience to our neighbours and we’d like to thank the well-wishers for their support.”
Campbell said Ravensdown was already working with its customers and transporters to keep them informed and help them with alternative supply options.
Ravensdown has operated at the 14ha Main South Road site since 1922.
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.
Former Agriculture Minister and Otaki farmer Nathan Guy has been appointed New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy (SATE).
Alliance Group has commissioned a new heat pump system at its Mataura processing plant in Southland.
Fonterra has slashed another 50c off its milk price forecast as global milk flows shows no sign of easing.
Meat processors are hopeful that the additional 15% tariff on lamb exports to the US will also come off.
Fears of a serious early drought in Hawke’s Bay have been allayed – for the moment at least.

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