NZ scientists make breakthrough in Facial Eczema research
A significant breakthrough in understanding facial eczema (FE) in livestock brings New Zealand closer to reducing the disease’s devastating impact on farmers, animals, and rural communities.
BEEF + LAMB New Zealand wants assurance around research outcomes and future science capability for the sheep and beef sector, says chairman James Parsons.
Parsons says Beef + Lamb (B+LNZ) understands the strategic intent behind AgResearch's confirmed proposal to restructure, but wants more information.
Parsons' comments are in response to the announcement by AgResearch initiating the next phase of its Future Footprint Proposal. This will involve four sites – Hamilton, Palmerston North, Lincoln and Invermay – with head office activities based at Lincoln.
Parsons says B+LNZ supports the concept of strong links between research and education. Establishing multidisciplinary science and business innovation hubs can assist in delivering on this objective.
"Like AgResearch and other sector stakeholders, B+LNZ appreciates that the plan is not without risk. Any restructuring proposal and relocation of staff is very unsettling and this proposal is no exception.
"B+LNZ respects it is the call of the AgResearch leadership as to how it runs its business and where it locates its staff. However, before being satisfied, B+LNZ requires more information that suitable plans and mitigations are in place so our research outcomes are not compromised and science capability is retained."
B+LNZ and AgResearch have agreed to work closely together as B+LNZ seeks more detail. B+LNZ has agreed to assist where possible to minimise disruption, ensuring that current and new B+LNZ research investments are able to be delivered as planned.
The National Wild Goat Hunting Competition has removed 33,418 wild goats over the past three years.
New Zealand needs a new healthcare model to address rising rates of obesity in rural communities, with the current system leaving many patients unable to access effective treatment or long-term support, warn GPs.
Southland farmers are being urged to put safety first, following a spike in tip offs about risky handling of wind-damaged trees
Third-generation Ashburton dairy farmers TJ and Mark Stewart are no strangers to adapting and evolving.
When American retail giant Cosco came to audit Open Country Dairy’s new butter plant at the Waharoa site and give the green light to supply their American stores, they allowed themselves a week for the exercise.
Fonterra chair Peter McBride says the divestment of Mainland Group is their last significant asset sale and signals the end of structural changes.

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