Editorial: Sense at last
OPINION: For the first time in many years, a commonsense approach is emerging to balance environmental issues with the need for the nation's primary producers to be able to operate effectively.
If you're an environmental enthusiast on your farm then the Southland Community Environment Awards are your opportunity to shine.
Nominations are now open for the annual awards which recognise achievements of special significance that benefit Southland's environment.
Judges are looking for people and projects that enhance, protect and showcase Southland's environment, says long-time judge, Warren Tuckey, director of operations at Environment Southland.
"We're fortunate to live in an amazing natural environment here in Southland. There are so many people who are active in their own patch of the province, looking after and nurturing what we have either through educational projects, sustainable practice or innovative thinking. If you're one of them, we want to hear from you."
Seven different award categories cater for all kinds of environmental projects and activities. The categories are individual, farming, school, community group, commercial, innovator and achiever. The same project can be nominated in up to two categories.
Projects entered must be either located in Southland, have been developed in Southland or be of demonstrated benefit to the region. People can nominate their own project or another project that makes a positive contribution to the environment.
Winning entries receive sponsored prizes that include cash, travel, native plants or financial services.
This is the 21st year the awards have been held and the 2016 winners will be announced at a celebration night to be held in Invercargill on August 3. Last year's awards attracted 33 entries.
Award nominations close on May 13. A nomination form and information pack can be downloaded from the Environment Southland website www.es.govt.nz
Newly elected Federated Farmers meat and wool group chair Richard Dawkins says he will continue the great work done his predecessor Toby Williams.
Hosted by ginger dynamo Te Radar, the Fieldays Innovation Award Winners Event put the spotlight on the agricultural industry's most promising ideas.
According to DairyNZ's latest Econ Tracker update, there has been a rise in the forecast breakeven milk price for the 2025/26 season.
Despite the rain and a liberal coating of mud, engines roared, and the 50th Fieldays Tractor Pull Competition drew crowds of spectators across the four days of the annual event.
Nationwide rural wellbeing programme, Farmstrong recently celebrated its tenth birthday at Fieldays with an event attended by ambassador Sam Whitelock, Farmers Mutual Group (FMG), Farmstrong partners, and government Ministers.
Six industry organisations, including DairyNZ and the Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ) have signed an agreement with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to prepare the country for a potential foot and mouth outbreak.
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