NZ kiwifruit sector on alert for mysterious Italian disease
New Zealand's kiwifruit industry is on alert following reports of a mystery disease that is sweeping through Italian orchards.
UCLA is urging residents to take advantage of a new funding option to support individuals working independently on killing animal pests on their properties.
The Upper Coromandel Landcare Association (UCLA) is campaigning to draw attention to recent changes to Waikato Regional Council's small-scale community initiatives fund, which is part of the council's natural heritage programme.
The council's funding policy now includes one-off grants for individuals, in addition to organised community groups. Clarification of funding policy reveals that grants are available for work on uncovenanted, as well as covenanted properties.
The regional council fund supports purchase of materials such as traps and bait stations. Grants are capped at $5000 per application, of which up to $1000 may be for contracted services.
UCLA spokeperson Reihana Robinson, who advocated as representative on WRC's Coromandel catchment committee for the changes to the council's funding policy, says the funding option for individuals on uncovenanted land is a big step forward for protecting vast additional areas of bush on the peninsula.
"Many Coromandel residents have been working independently, off their own bat and in their own time and at their own expense, to protect and enhance our ecosystems and natural environment. These conservationists deserve the same financial support from council that is afforded to groups and incorporated societies," Robinson said.
"As for extending grants to work on uncovenanted properties, most stoats and rats I've met don't stop to check the LIM report on a bush block before killing a nestling. All our bush heritage merits the same protection and support."
Applications are now being accepted by WRC until March 21. The application form is downloadable from the regional council website or can be requested from Dave Byers at WRC in Hamilton.
Rabobank says climate change creates both risks and opportunities for the bank and its clients and that the food and agriculture sector needs to recognise the potential for both.
Eastern Bay of Plenty farmer Rebecca O’Brien was named the 2024 Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) Regional Leader of the Year.
Humbling, overwhelming, and an absolute honour. That’s how 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year Katrina Roberts describes her win at the Dairy Women’s Network conference earlier this month.
Hamilton-based Dairy Goat Co-operative (DGC) is revamping its leadership in the hope of recovering from its financial doldrums.
With just over two weeks left in the 2023-24 season, all eyes will be on Fonterra's opening milk price for the new season.
Fonterra Brands' Cathy Lang has been crowned the country's best cheesemaker for the second time in three years.
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