It is now four months since Rural News first reported on the deaths of Southland cows on swedes so I thought it would be a good time to determine that the investigation is on track and the correct questions are being asked.

AgResearch scientist Dr Phil Rolston has been awarded the Chinese government's most prestigious science award for his contributions to agriculture in China.

A SOFTER market was seen for most types in the first auction for 2015 of 13,200 bales of North Island wool, says New Zealand Wool Services International Ltd's general manager, John Dawson.

FARMER CO-OP LIC has bought the majority interest of its Brazilian genetics distributor, NZ Brasil Genetics Producao Animal Ltda.

DAIRY PRICES are stabilising, but climbing off the market floor may take some time, says Rabobank.

CHINA and Russia are the biggest factors in the global dairy price crash of the last four months, says Rabobank New Zealand and Asia director of dairy research, Hayley Moynihan.

THE IMPACT of the massive drought two years ago is still affecting sheep numbers, with only a modest increase this season.

TOTAL AGRICULTURAL export earnings for 2014-15 will be down 9.5%, warns the Ministry of Primary Industries.

FONTERRA HAS reduced its 2014-15 forecast payout to $4.70/kgMS.

It's not something dairy farmers needed right now but the message is clear: change or risk losing your competitive edge in the global market.