Spuds losing ground to housing
Potato growers are losing prime land to urban sprawl, with over 3000ha lost since 2016.
Potatoes New Zealand has announced the resignation of its chief executive, Chris Claridge.
Claridge has been in the role for a total of seven years, since 2015.
In his time with the industry association, Claridge brought numerous operational and technical services in-house, and ushered in a shift towards spending levy money on research and development.
In a statement released last night, the Potatoes New Zealand board said they appreciated the achievements of the organisation under Claridge’s leadership and wished him well in his next endeavours.
While Claridge has not announced any future plans, he will stay on as chief executive until the end of April.
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.

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