Methane emission target reset
OPINION: For close to eight years now, I have found myself talking about methane quite a lot.
Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard says departing DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle has led the levy group through a period of industry growth.
Mackle announced his resignation earlier this week after 15 years as DairyNZ’s chief executive.
“After a lot of thought and discussion with family, I have decided to step down at the end of June which will allow the Board time to have a smooth transition and to recruit my successor,” Mackle said in a statement on Tuesday.
“I am proud to have had the opportunity to lead DairyNZ over this period, the dynamism and constant challenge and change in our sector has made it an exciting and purposeful role.”
Hoggard says that under Mackle’s leadership DairyNZ “has supported farmers to improve environmental performance and adjust to increasing regulatory compliance”.
“Tim has always been a pleasure to work with, he is well liked and well respected for his collaborative and positive approach to work,” he says.
DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel is also acknowledging Mackle’s contribution to both DairyNZ and dairy farmers during his tenure.
“Tim has always been hugely passionate about helping dairy farmers navigate challenges they have faced and continue to face,” van der Poel says.
He says the industry good organisation has been “fortunate” to have had Mackle through several challenging periods.
“I would also like to personally acknowledge Tim. I have immense respect for Tim. Firstly, for the commitment and integrity that he brings to the role and the way he always conducts himself. And, for the huge intellect and passion he brings.”
The recruitment process for a new DairyNZ chief executive will begin shortly.
BNZ says it is backing aspiring dairy farmers through an innovative new initiative that helps make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking a little easier.
LIC chief executive David Chin says meeting the revised methane reduction targets will rely on practical science, smart technology, and genuine collaboration across the sector.
Lincoln University Dairy Farm will be tweaking some management practices after an animal welfare complaint laid in mid-August, despite the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation into the complaint finding no cause for action.
A large slice of the $3.2 billion proposed capital return for Fonterra farmer shareholders could end up with the banks.
Opening a new $3 million methane research barn in Waikato this month, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay called on the dairy sector to “go as fast as you can and prove the concepts”.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.