How farmers make spring count
OPINION: Spring is a critical season for farmers – a time when the right decisions can set the tone for productivity and profitability throughout the year.
North Waikato sheep and beef farmer John Jackson has thown his hat in the ring for a seat on the board of fertiliser co-op Ballance.
Jackson describes himself as a good listener, communicator, independent thinker and team player.
He believes that he can bring all of these attributes and day-to-day farming experience to the fertiliser company’s board table.
“I have a history of working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes. I am a good listener and critical thinker. I can capably represent farmer shareholders’ interests.”
Jackson says the co-op is in good financial shape and credits this to its current and former shareholders, administrators and all those associated with the company.
“It has moved with the times – not just in the quality and formulation of product – but with the technology around application,” he adds.
“However, the challenges keep coming. It is of utmost importance that we continue with appropriate messaging of the ‘science-based’ approach – backed up with certified quality and accuracy of placement to ensure our place in the world.”
Jackson says his links to both farming and Ballance are not tenuous.
“Our shareholding in Ballance has grown as our business has grown. I live the droughts and the good seasons, the industry setbacks and its successes,” he explains.
Academic freedom is a privilege and it's put at risk when people abuse it.
All eyes are on milk production in New Zealand and its impact on global dairy prices in the coming months.
Claims that some Southland farmers were invoiced up to $4000 for winter grazing compliance checks despite not breaching rules are being rejected by Environment Southland.
According to the most recent Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, farmer confidence has inched higher, reaching its second highest reading in the last decade.
From 1 October, new livestock movement restrictions will be introduced in parts of Central Otago dealing with infected possums spreading bovine TB to livestock.
Phoebe Scherer, a technical manager from the Bay of Plenty, has won the 2025 Young Grower of the Year national title.
OPINION: For years, the ironically named Dr Mike Joy has used his position at Victoria University to wage an activist-style…
OPINION: A mate of yours truly has had an absolute gutsful of the activist group SAFE.