Beef genetics survey
New Zealand's primary sector is being called on to help shape the future of the country's industry by sharing views and insights about the availability and use of genetic tools.
The Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme is asking farmers, beef breeders and rural professionals, including agricultural consultants and facilitators, stock agents and vets, to take part in its annual industry survey.
INZB is a seven-year Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures partnership supported by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the New Zealand Meat Board and the Ministry for Primary Industries.
It aims to boost the sector’s profits by $460 over the next 25 years. It is developing a beef genetic evaluation system that includes traits that are important to New Zealand beef farmers, supporting a sustainable beef farming industry.
The survey tracks awareness, knowledge and use of genetic tools in the New Zealand beef industry over time.
INZB programme lead Gemma Jenkins says responses to the survey play a key role in shaping the future of the programme by directing and informing the activities and development of resources, and to measure changes in views and the uptake of genetic tools in the industry over time.
“In the previous two industry surveys, we’ve gained significant insights into the perspectives of the industry and how extension activities and resources are best delivered to different demographics,” says Jenkins.
“We’ve seen a rising awareness of genetic tools within the industry, highlighting the importance of initiatives like the across-breed Beef Progeny Test and the development of a New Zealand-specific genetic evaluation and breeding indexes,” she says.
The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete and answers will remain anonymous. Completed surveys will go into a draw to win a $100 Prezzy Card.
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…