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Time to fend off costly nutritional deficits

Fodder beet, a popular feed for cows, can contribute to copper deficiencies, and increase the risk of phosphorus deficiency.

An inexpensive autumn feed test can guard against mineral deficiencies in dairy and beef cows that can lead to low growth rates and poor milk yields.

Maximise pasture yield and feed the cow

Given the tough financial situation, it is time for dairy farmers to rely more on pasture production and to plan how to get more milk from fewer cows.

Possum kill planned for Kaweka Range

The work is planned for areas of the Kaweka Range where TB-infected wildlife has been found.

An aerial possum kill using 1080 poison is planned for the high Kaweka Range between Taupo and Hawke's Bay this winter, says OSPRI.

Animal welfare regulation critical, says minister

The proposed animal welfare regulations include new rules for handling bobby calves.

The Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, says the proposed animal welfare regulations now out for consultation are very important for the NZ primary sector.

Planner gives bird’s-eye view

DairyNZ developer Matt Highway has been trialling the Riparian Planner with farmers. He is pictured with Waikato farmer John Bluett.

Dairy farmers in 2013 committed to the Sustainable Dairying: Water Accord which requires them to have a riparian management plan by 2020.

Keeping shed water clean by treating with chlorine

Designed by Farm Medix, the Farm Chlor system will reduce the level of bacteria in water.

Farms' demands for large water volumes requires water storage in tanks and troughs, with potential for contamination.

Maize silage and dry cows

Table 1: Profit ($/cow) from using maize silage to increase cow condition score for a 450 kg J x F cow*

Autumn rains mean pasture covers are looking pretty good in many regions.

Dairy beef an income option for winter mating

Firstlight Wagyu supply manager Peter Keeling with Wagyu cross calves.

Dairy farmers wanting to spread risk and income source are enquiring about Firstlight Wagyu genetics, says the company's supply manager Peter Keeling.

Big orders in hand as Westland’s UHT plant hits go

Food safety Minister Jo Goodhew unveils the plaque while Westland chairman Matt O’Regan looks on.

Adding value to New Zealand's dairy produce was the strong theme of the official opening of Westland Milk Products' new UHT plant at Rolleston last week.