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.
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.

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