DairyNZ and Beef + Lamb NZ wrap up M. bovis compensation support after $161M in claims
Compensation assistance for farmers impacted by Mycoplama bovis is being wound up.
A final report supporting improvements in New Zealand's genetic gain system for the national dairy herd is being backed by the sector's leading genetic companies.
The Independent Working Group's (IWG) final report looked at the dairy sector's genetic improvement progress and has put forward recommendations to drive faster rates of genetic gain in New Zealand's dairy herd.
Industry good body DairyNZ, LIC and CRV say they are committed to making changes for the sector's benefit and will each consider the IWG's recommendations.
LIC chair Corrigan Sowman and CRV managing director James Smallwood say that they're pleased with the focus on transparency and consistency.
"Genetic gain is a critical pillar in the future success of our farmers' businesses. It is only right that, where needed, we come together to improve the structures underpinning this success," Sowman says.
"We're looking forward to working closely with DairyNZ to set up the right governance structures, workstreams and reporting mechanisms so we can effectively achieve the report's stated objectives for the betterment of their dairy herds to support New Zealand's future."
Smallwood says LIC and CRV appreciate the IWG's recognition of their focus on genetic improvement for the betterment of the national herd, and the important contribution of their combined work to date.
"It's pleasing to see the IWG encouraging the consideration of existing international models to help us find workable solutions. We both thank the IWG for the work it has undertaken," he says.
DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel says the report is groundbreaking because it captures in one place the reasons New Zealand has fallen behind international competitors, while clearly outlining a way forward that can involve all sector players.
"It also shows New Zealand can catch up quickly by taking key actions and underscores the immense benefits to dairy farmers - including efficiency and productivity gains through animals that are more resilient, profitable and easier to farm," he says.
"Overcoming sector challenges to provide New Zealand farmers with world-leading genetic gain will require significant contributions from all parties."
Recommendations include strengthening the role and impact of the National Breeding Objective (NBO) for achieving genetic gain in the New Zealand dairy herd. This is expected to improve the amount and quality of phenotypic data collected from commercial dairy herds and encourage all sector players to use genomic technologies to make genetic gain (aligned to the NBO) as fast as possible.
Labour's agriculture spokesperson Jo Luxton says while New Zealand needs more housing, sacrificing our best farmland to get there is not the answer.
Profitability issues facing arable farmers are the same across the world, says New Zealand's special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr.
Over 85% of Fonterra farmer suppliers will be eligible for customer funding up to $1,500 for solutions designed to drive on-farm efficiency gains and reduce emissions intensity.
Tighter beef and lamb production globally have worked to the advantage of NZ, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
Groundswell is ramping up its 'Quit Paris' campaign with signs going up all over the country.
Some farmers in the Nelson region are facing up to five years of hard work to repair their damaged properties caused by the recent devastating floods.
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