Early Bird I Friday June 7th 2024

Associate Agriculture Minister sets tough target to turn wool around, new research reveals cows eating preferences during winter, and kiwifruit industry calls for policy changes to boost the industry. Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather! Associate Agriculture Minister sets tough target to turn wool around Associate Minister of Agriculture Mark Patterson has set a six-month deadline to begin revitalising the wool industry, acknowledging the dire state of the sector but emphasising ongoing efforts behind the scenes. Patterson recognised the critical nature of the situation and highlighted the urgency to formulate a coherent recovery plan within this period, particularly as farmers prepare to purchase genetics for the next year.  He agrees with a recent assessment that $10 per kilogram is the break-even price for wool, although he cautioned that such a price rise is not feasible within six months. The goal, however, is to create a visible pathway for farmers towards achieving that price point. Together with Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and fellow Associate Minister Andrew Hoggard, Patterson has been communicating the Government’s strategy through a series of 30 shearing shed meetings across the country. He acknowledged the immediate logical moves farmers are making towards shedding sheep but stressed the importance of reversing this trend by boosting demand for wool to exceed supply, thus supporting higher farm gate prices. He also suggested the need for improved pathways to market for wool, potentially drawing inspiration from successful models like Zespri and Fonterra, to establish more direct links between growers and the end market.  New research reveals cows eating preferences during winter A new study has found that dairy cows managed on pasture with hay bales during winter exhibit better welfare indicators compared to those on kale crops.  The research, conducted by AgResearch and Massey University scientists, involved 80 non-lactating, pregnant Friesian cross-bred cows, and highlighted the benefits of pasture-based systems over forage crops in cold conditions. The study found that cows on pasture with hay bales spent more time ruminating and lying down in comfortable postures, suggesting higher comfort levels compared to cows managed on kale crops. Additionally, cows on pasture with hay had higher skin temperatures, indicating better thermal comfort.  The study also observed environmental benefits associated with the hay bale system. Senior scientist Ross Monaghan pointed out that this system facilitates greater capture of urinary nitrogen, reducing nutrient loss, and minimises mud and soil damage, leading to improved environmental outcomes. This research was funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Land Management and Climate Change fund and AgResearch. Rural Hub all set to assist farmers at Fieldays Farmers will tackle critical issues facing the rural community at this year’s National Agricultural Fieldays, thanks to a new initiative, the Rural Advocacy Hub. Launched in partnership with Federated Farmers, the hub aims to bring together various organisations and voices to discuss and address the myriad challenges confronting the agricultural sector. The hub will cover a wide range of topics, including free trade agreements, interest rates, banking practices, climate change, the controversial Three Waters reform, and regulatory red tape. Fieldays chief executive Peter Nation expects participation from government ministers, chief executives, board chairs, and industry leaders, and is placing value of open conversations and debates in resolving issues and fostering a collaborative environment. Bryce McKenzie, co-founder of Groundswell NZ, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, viewing it as a chance to consolidate farming voices and strengthen advocacy for agriculture. William Robertson, chair of the Food and Fibre Youth Network, also supports the initiative, emphasising the need for diverse perspectives, especially on contentious issues like the transport of live animals.  Rural Women New Zealand national president Gill Naylor pointed out that the hub's focus extends beyond industry issues to encompass the broader rural community's concerns. These include mental health, equitable service access such as connectivity, healthcare, education, and banking and overall community well-being. Fieldays kicks off next Wednesday at the Mystery Creek Events Centre in Hamilton. Kiwifruit industry calls for policy changes to boost the industry New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporation (NZKGI) is calling for appropriate government policy settings to support the expansion of the kiwifruit sector.  Chief executive Colin Bond is optimistic about the positive attitude toward change expressed by the new coalition government, and has had discussions with Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Nicola Grigg, the Associate Minister of Agriculture responsible for horticulture. Bond says that while the kiwifruit industry has a product in high global demand, meeting this demand requires effective policies around infrastructure, including ports, roads, water access, labour, agri-chemicals, and land use. Addressing climate change, Bond notes that growers are increasingly aware of its impacts and are exploring solutions such as cultivating different varieties or expanding into new regions. However, he acknowledges that establishing new growing regions is complex and requires substantial investment, particularly in post-harvest facilities. Bond has found the government very receptive to the industry's feedback, resulting in a strong alignment of goals between the kiwifruit sector and the government’s export growth aspirations. Hamilton to host Holstein Friesian NZ conference Fans of black and white cattle are set to gather in Waikato in late June for the Holstein Friesian New Zealand conference and AGM.  Key events include the HFNZ-Semex On Farm Awards, the Holstein Friesian NZ AGM, the Holstein Friesian NZ Awards, and the Holstein Friesian Black & White Youth Auction.  The prestigious Valden Cow of the Year award, which honours the cow deemed to have significantly contributed or has the potential to contribute to the breed continuously, will be presented during the HFNZ Awards. Additionally, the Mahoe Trophy will be awarded to the New Zealand-bred bull with the highest points for BW, protein BV, fat BV, fertility BV, functional survival BV, and type trait. Conference committee chair Doug Courtman says the conference is an excellent opportunity to reconnect with friends, take a break from farm life, and celebrate the achievements within the breed.  He commended the hard work of the Waikato Branch of Holstein Friesian NZ in organising a memorable conference program and encouraged both members and non-members to attend and honour the top performers of the Holstein Friesian breed. The event is being held on June 23rd to 26th in Hamilton. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.