Two LIC directors not seeking re-election
Two long-standing LIC farmer-elected directors are stepping down later this year.
LIC is joining forces with Precision Farming Ltd, supplier of GIS-based systems that manage the application of farm nutrients to optimise pasture growth including fertiliser and effluent.
Precision will share its nutrient management functionality for integration with the co-op’s Minda farm management system used by 90% of dairy farmers.
LIC chief executive Wayne McNee says it would provide enhanced information for farmers about their pasture and feed availability.
“With a predominantly grass-based industry we recognise pasture management and feed optimisation is important.
“Seamless integration of farm information like fertiliser, effluent, water and irrigation will complement our existing pasture management tools in Minda.”
Precision Farming’s system records spreading and nutrient activity on 4500 farms, based on data generated by 720 of the country’s estimated 800 commercial fertiliser spreading trucks.
Precision Farming also markets fertiliser monitoring GPS equipment direct to farmers, for use on self-spreading equipment and for GPS guidance and control of tractors, sprayers and harvesters.
Brendon Cane, managing director of Precision Farming, says the partnership will make it easier, faster and more profitable for more farmers to use integrated farm management information to support better decisions.
As a contractor himself, he appreciates the benefits of reducing the time and cost, and often the guesswork, in improving pasture performance as part of overall farm profitability. “With the current economic environment, finding any inefficiencies in operating expenses is more important than ever.”
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.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.
A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.
One of the country's top Māori sheep and beef farms is facing a five-year battle to get back to where it was before Cyclone Gabrielle struck just over 14 months ago.
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