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.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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