Planning, Feeding, and Genetics: Key to Yearling Heifer Mating Success
Planning, feeding, a robust animal health programme and the right genetics are the critical factors in a successful heifer mating programme.
According to the report, a further 38,921ha of sheep and beef farms have been sold for conversion to forestry since September 2024.
Red meat farmers are urging the Government to act on the growing number of whole sheep and beef farm sales for conversion to forestry, particularly carbon farming.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand released updated independent research by Orme & Associates showing a further 38,921ha has been confirmed as sold since the last report in September 2024.
Revised confirmed sales in 2023 now total 29,518 hectares and in 2024 now 30,483 hectares - that figure is expected to rise as further sales are confirmed.
Sales through Overseas Investment Office approvals and to carbon-only forestry entities continue to dominate.
The total amount of whole sheep and beef farms sold since 1 January 2017 is now over 300,000ha.
B+LNZ chair Kate Acland says the figures reinforce the need for action.
"While we appreciate the Government's announcement this week about legislation being introduced to restrict wholesale conversions based on land use classes, the numbers show whole-farm sales for conversion to forestry for carbon credits are continuing at pace.
"Anecdotally we're still hearing of a significant number of farms being sold this year, despite the Government announcing the limits last year.
"We're concerned that some sales are continuing on the basis of intent to purchase land before the limits were announced. We urgently need the Government to tighten the criteria around proof of intent to purchase."
In a significant shift for employers, wage theft is no longer only a civil matter but now also a criminal one.
In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF), Fonterra says it is increasing support for young people entering the dairy industry with a new two-year programme.
OPINION: The Government needs to act now to address consenting issues faced by farmers throughout the country.
NZ First leader Winston Peters has continued his criticism of Fonterra to sell its brand business to the French company Lactalis, saying the move is "utter madness".
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) has launched a new initiative designed to make it easier for employers to support their young team members by covering their NZYF membership.

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