Science Snippet: Cryopreservation Protects Grapevines at Lincoln University
A Lincoln University research fellow is working to safeguard grapevine species from extinction, using careful science and liquid nitrogen.
Max Tweedie takes up his role as Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Genetics North Island extension officer this month.
Tweedie recently completed his Bachelor of Agriculture degree at Lincoln University. This included a semester at the University of New England in Armidale, where he studied breeding programme design and had exposure to Breedplan and the Australian Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit.
Tweedie originates from a sheep and beef farm in Northern Hawke’s Bay and has worked on several sheep and beef studs during his degree, to grow his skills and knowledge in animal breeding and genetics.
Based in Hastings, his role focuses on helping commercial farmers and breeders apply genetics to their business objectives. He joins South Island extension officer Annie O’Connell, who joined B+LNZ Genetics in August and works out of Dunedin.
A verbal stoush has broken out between Federated Farmers and a new group that claims to be fighting against cheaper imports that undermine NZ farmers.
According to the latest ANZ Agri Focus report, energy-intensive and domestically-focused sectors currently bear the brunt of rising fuel, fertiliser and freight costs.
Having gone through a troublesome “divorce” from its association and part ownership of AGCO, Indian manufacturer TAFE is said to be determined to be seen as a modern business rather than just another tractor maker from the developing world.
Two long-standing New Zealand agricultural businesses are coming together to strengthen innovation, local manufacturing capability, and access to essential farm inputs for farmers across the country.
A new farmer-led programme aimed at bringing young people into dairy farming is under way in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
The Government has announced changes to stock exclusion regulations which it claims will cut unnecessary costs and inflexible rules while maintaining environmental protections.

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