Tag keeps better track of cows
Australian farmer Mark Billing does not consider himself a technology nerd, but is certainly an early adopter of techniques and equipment to improve his herd management.
The conviction of a senior livestock agent in Blenheim serves as a warning that the illegal tagging of cattle will not be tolerated, says the Animal Health Board (AHB).
Richard John May, 66, and from Seddon, admitted two breaches of the Biosecurity Act after he "helped out a mate" by attaching three tags to a friend's animals at the Blenheim public saleyard. The tags he used belonged to other farmers.
However, following a report from the on-site movement control and identification officer, the AHB's own investigation led to May being prosecuted for the incident which took place in October last year.
May was convicted on two charges and fined $750 in recognition of an early guilty plea. He could have faced a fine of up to $50,000 and/or 12 months in jail.
AHB technical and farm services manager, Stu Hutchings, said May's actions were unlawful and had the potential to create unnecessary risks for farmers and the TB control programme.
"This prosecution sends a clear message to people not to try and take shortcuts. We will continue to be vigilant and will not hesitate to take action against those who fail to follow proper procedures which are designed to protect others," said Dr Hutchings.
"Fortunately, the majority of farmers in New Zealand realise the importance of complying with identification requirements to ensure disease management is effective in protecting their livelihoods and our reputation overseas.
"The incorrect identification of cattle or deer can lead to a significant waste of resources if animals in a herd cannot be identified quickly and accurately."
Dr Hutchings stressed that the incorrect use of RFID ear tags remains a breach of the Biosecurity Act. Offenders may also be considered to have breached the NAIT Act.
Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.
A seminar on rural dispute resolution has been organised at Lincoln University, Christchurch this month.
The legacy of Dr Peter Snow continues to inspire as the recipients of the 2023 and 2024 Peter Snow Memorial Awards were announced at the recent National Rural Health Conference.
One of Fonterra’s global customers, Mars is launching an ambitious sustainable dairy plan to work with dairy farmers and cut emissions by 50%.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand chief executive for the past eight years, Sam McIvor is heading for new pastures at Ospri, which runs NZ’s integrated animal disease management and traceability service.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: This old mutt well remembers the wailing, whining and gnashing of teeth by former West Coast MP and Labour…
OPINION: Your canine crusader gets a little fed up with the some in media, union hacks, opposition politicians and hard-core…