Getting sheep shape at Pyramid Farm
The vineyards at Pyramid Farm in Marlborough’s Avon Valley have never been run of the mill, with plantings that follow the natural contours of the land, 250 metres above sea level.
An overwhelming response to a sheep welfare survey of farmers, scientists and consumers shows animal wellbeing is of utmost importance to the Australian sheep industry, says Australia’s Sheep CRC.
“This survey is a first step to improve our knowledge in this area and to identify new methods to improve wellbeing standards on Australian farms,” says Sheep CRC chief executive James Rowe.
“Sheep producers genuinely care for the health and wellbeing of their animals and invest heavily in farm management practices, but protecting animals from threats to their health and wellbeing in extensive operating environments remains a major logistical challenge.”
The survey, which received 1530 responses, was run by the Animal Welfare Science Centre, Sheep CRC, University of Melbourne and Meat and Livestock Australia.
The CRC’s animal wellbeing programme aims to develop new risk management information, automated animal monitoring and data management systems to support pro-active management decisions. Data from the survey will fine-tune the work.
“Further improving wellbeing standards will require a big spend, which the industry is making to ensure Australian sheep are provided with enhanced levels of care and protection,” says Rowe.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
There are opportunities outside the farmgate for young farmers to further develop their skills, says 2025 Primary Industries Emerging Leader Award winner Bridie Virbickas.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…