Editorial: Punching Above Our Weight
OPINION: With 10,500 dairy farms, New Zealand continues to punch above its weight around the world.
Presented as part of the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards, it recognises those dairy farmers who are respected by their farming peers and their community for sustainable dairying.
Entry for this award is by nomination only via dairyindustryawards.co.nz Nomination forms are available at dairyindustryawards.co.nz, with entries closing March 20.
The 2020 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award farmer could come from any of New Zealand’s milk suppliers and any farmer or farming partnership who demonstrates a high calibre of performance and leadership in the areas of responsible and sustainable care of people, animals, ecosystems and communities are eligible to enter.
Robin Congdon, NZDIA general manager, says that is important to showcase the good work farmers are doing within the industry as it does not always get the exposure it deserves.
“We have excellent, experienced dairy farmers creating and working on wonderful projects that have a positive effect on the environment.”
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NZDIA general manager, Robin Congdon. |
“We want to hear about the people who are farming responsibly, both environmentally and socially, and showcasing excellence on a daily basis. This is a chance for people to nominate their neighbour, their employer or someone in their community.
“This Award gives us the opportunity to recognise farmers that have progressed to ownership, demonstrate leadership in their farming practices and are a role model for our younger farmers coming through” he says.
Taranaki farmers Damian and Jane Roper won the 2019 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award and received the John Wilson Memorial Trophy.
From restoring bush on their property to its former natural state to creating a lake and monitoring the water quality, the Ropers impressed the panel of judges with their commitment and passion. The winner announced at the Awards dinner on May 16th.
