TB plan review to focus on possum hot spots
New Zealand is closer to eradicating bovine TB than ever before, but possums remain a threat, says Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
OSPRI will carry out on-farm TB testing, following AsureQuality's decision not to renew their contract.
Simon Andrew, OSPRI's general manager, disease control planning and integration says they are excited by this step in OSPRI's growth as an integrated disease management agency.
"Livestock TB testing remains an indespensible part of the TBfree programme, and we're working hard to ensure it continues at cattle and deer farms across New Zealand," says Andrew.
"By insourcing the service, it brings us closer to our farmers and that's particularly important given the crucial part they play in our TB eradication programme."
Andrew says it also introduces more agility, whether that's responsiveness to emerging technology or when changes in TB testing are needed quickly.
OPINION: As negotiations advance on the India-New Zealand FTA, it’s important to remember the joint commitment made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the beginning of this process in March: for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement.
Minister for Universities, Shane Reti, has opened the final new build in a ten plus year project to upgrade the veterinary facilities at Massey University.
As New Zealand experiences more frequent and severe flooding events, the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is urging consumers to be honest and accurate when making insurance claims for flood damage.
A recently held arable field day in the Manawatu brought with it a timely reminder to be on the lookout for velvetleaf incursions.
In a significant shift for employers, wage theft is no longer only a civil matter but now also a criminal one.
In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF), Fonterra says it is increasing support for young people entering the dairy industry with a new two-year programme.

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