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Federated Farmers is happy with the Government's 30 Year Infrastructure Plan announced yesterday.
Anders Crofoot, Federated Farmers infrastructure spokesperson, says the Government and Feds seem to be on the same page on the issue.
"Rural infrastructure will need to be a priority in looking at addressing the inefficiencies in infrastructure investment and planning."
Federated Farmers supports the intent to better understand where the critical demands are and to make better decisions from that knowledge, but remain wary of what that strategy means for rural communities.
"To date rural roading infrastructure has been suffering from a significant funding squeeze and it's unclear if this plan is going to address that. If it doesn't, then better planning won't be enough to offset the opportunity costs we're likely to face."
Rural infrastructure, such as water, roads, fibre and broadband are vital to our rural communities and the broader economy.
"It's vital to keep our rural communities connected especially rural businesses to their customers. Fibre and broadband will be the next generation's transport, so the government's continuation of the Rural Broadband Initiative is welcome news."
Chris Allen, Federated Farmers water spokesperson added "For thriving rural communities to meet the New Zealand Government's aspirations, they have patiently been awaiting new investment in water infrastructure."
"There's a real positive in recognising that investing in reliable water supply will maximise the value of water, ensuring social and economic community gain from that resource while protecting the environment."
"There are many promising elements to this Plan and the rural community is keen to see some long awaited investment come their way," Crofoot added.
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The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
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