International Day of Rural Women: Two DairyNZ Farmers’ Stories
Today, 15 October, is the International Day of Rural Women, which recognises rural women’s contribution to farming, communities and the environment.
DairyNZ chair, Jim van der Poel, claims the HWEN proposal is a win-win for all New Zealanders.
He says during their consultation programme, 99% of farmers (who turned up to meetings) opposed agriculture being included in the ETS and 86% supported the farm-level proposal.
"This is because farmers want to be recognised for their own emission - not just an industry average," he told Rural New. "If they have some behavioural change or if they do something on farm to lessen their emissions, they want to be recognised for that."
Van der Poel says, under the HWEN proposal, there is an opportunity for levy funds to be recycled back to fund new research and tools to further help farmers reduce their emissions.
"Unlike the ETS, the HWEN system will actually reduce emissions, and will recognise and incentivise on-farm actions. It will invest in R&D to find new solutions, building on the already significant primary sector investment," he says.
National’s pledge to introduce 19 new national standards shows the party is serious about getting Wellington out of farming, Federated Farmers says.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Fonterra Co-operative Group chief financial officer Andrew Murray has resigned to take up a role outside the dairy giant.
A major move is about to get underway to improve the quality and viability of dairy beef and cattle in NZ.
Veterinarians say changes to the code of welfare for dairy cattle provides a positive foundation for improved cattle welfare across the country.
Today, 15 October, is the International Day of Rural Women, which recognises rural women’s contribution to farming, communities and the environment.

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