MECHANICAL CULTIVATION of paddocks for producing summer forage or fodder crop happens at a time when high intensity local storms are common, adding substantial risk to the practice.

DairyNZ faced pointed questions about the sector’s staff shortages at its annual meeting earlier this month, but the day after, on a field trip, the board and senior management heard one farm’s solution. 

Dairy farmers are being told that there are opportunities to increase profitability even when times are tough.

New Zealand’s top Jersey cow breeders converge in Waikato next month for the North Island Championship.

Before heading off with a trailer or caravan in tow, first check the towbar to ensure all bolts attaching it to the vehicle are tight, there is no corrosion present or cracking in the welds or structure and that the towball itself is secured properly to the tongue, says towbar maker Best Bars. 

RURAL CONTRACTORS New Zealand has endorsed the warnings made recently by Waikato Regional Council that agrichemical contractors operating without certification are breaching regulations.

FONTERRA HAS started consultation towards lodging consent applications to build two new high-efficiency milk powder driers at its Studholme site in South Canterbury.

IF YOU haven’t already heard of CostCo, chances are you soon will. Two representatives of the giant US wholesale-style retailer visited New Zealand earlier this month looking to forge closer links with beef suppliers.

THE WOOL industry needs a leadership group, says Wools of NZ chairman Mark Shadbolt, who urges prompt talks on setting one up now that growers have rejected the proposed levy.

VOTING FOR Fonterra’s board elections has begun. Fonterra’s 10,500 shareholders were last week mailed their voting packs for board elections and, in four wards, shareholder council positions. Voting opened online, by fax or post on the same day at 10.30am.