Risky business
OPINION: In the same way that even a stopped clock is right twice a day, economists sometimes get it right.
OPINION: This old mutt has a lot of time for outspoken North Otago farmer and stud breeder Jane Smith.
Not known for mincing her words when it comes to tackling bureaucrats or industry leaders that she disagrees with, it appears the firebrand Smith is also not one to pussyfoot around when advertising her and husband Blair’s Newhaven perendale stud.
A mate of yours truly pointed out a recent advert run by Newhaven promoting their stud. Its headline read: “Not a socialist sheep in sight.”
The ad went on to say, “At Newhaven we don’t breed any left-wing sheep – those that take up your time, your money and still wait at the gate for a handout.”
Talk about nailing your colours to your mast!
Your old mate has to tip his hat to the Smiths; at least those on the outlook for perendale sheep will not die wondering what they are in for.
Among the regular exhibitors at last month’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, the one that arguably takes the most intensive preparation every time is the PGG Wrightson Seeds site.
Two high producing Canterbury dairy farmers are moving to blended stockfeed supplements fed in-shed for a number of reasons, not the least of which is to boost protein levels, which they can’t achieve through pasture under the region’s nitrogen limit of 190kg/ha.
Buoyed by strong forecasts for milk prices and a renewed demand for dairy assets, the South Island rural real estate market has begun the year with positive momentum, according to Colliers.
The six young cattle breeders participating in the inaugural Holstein Friesian NZ young breeder development programme have completed their first event of the year.
New Zealand feed producers are being encouraged to boost staff training to maintain efficiency and product quality.
OPINION: The world is bracing for a trade war between the two biggest economies.