Dry weather classification expands to North Island
The dry weather in some parts of the North Island has received medium-scale adverse event classification from the Government.
Landcorp is establishing an advisory group of environmental experts.
The Environmental Reference Group (ERG) will guide Landcorp's environmental focus, implementing sustainable agricultural strategies that put environmental best practice first across all of Landcorp's operations.
The group comprises six of the country's leading primary sector experts across a range of fields:
Landcorp chief executive Steven Carden says the ERG is advising senior management on environmental activities with absolute independence.
"The members of this group have outstanding credentials in environmental management. That expertise will be invaluable as we continue moving our business to a new model characterised by higher value products, sustainable earnings and environmental best practice."
Carden says the independent environmental experts have the opportunity to challenge the enterprise.
"The ERG is helping us think about how we can drive environmental rejuvenation and future proof our farming activities while enhancing our profitability."
Carden said the group demonstrated a new model for the primary sector, with environmental leaders collaborating in business decisions. The ERG will directly advise the Landcorp board and Carden.
"With the right thinking, science and technology, we believe we can get good business outcomes and good environmental outcomes. Those things aren't mutually exclusive."
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.