B+LNZ calls for government action as sheep and beef farm sales to forestry climb
Red meat farmers are urging the Government to act on the growing number of whole sheep and beef farm sales for conversion to forestry, particularly carbon farming.
Of the 22% of farmers who voted, it was evenly split about B+LNZ's involvement in the process, she says.
"We need to get out there and hear more from all farmers to help us inform the next steps. What is clear from farmers is that there are significant concerns about the emissions pricing system and process and there are still too many unanswered questions. As an interim step, we have called for a staged implementation of an emissions pricing framework with the deferral of any pricing until outstanding issues are resolved.
"Our message to partners and Government has been that we need to take the time to discuss these issues further with our farmers, listen to their concerns and this will help determine next steps. We will be announcing details of this in the coming weeks.
"We have also been explicit that we will not accept an emissions pricing framework that will disproportionately impact the viability of sheep and beef farms and we will walk away, if necessary."
Acland says they are currently in the process of contacting all remit proposers.
