'Forestry hysteria' not helpful - forest owners
The New Zealand Farm Forestry Association says that recent comments from Beef + Lamb NZ (B + LNZ) and Federated Farmers are adding to alarm and hysteria around forestry.
The New Zealand Farm Forestry Association (NZFFA) is running 18 extension workshops throughout New Zealand in May and June to target potential tree growers.
National president of NZFFA, Neil Cullen says the timing is ideal for farmers who are interested in diversifying their long-term farm income.
"Trees are not just about the timber potential. They also protect the land and store carbon."
Cullen says farmer and landowner participants will also learn about the benefits of planting different species to help mitigate climate change, provide shade and shelter, reduce erosion and improve water quality.
"This is particularl timely and important when we note the huge areas of erosion caused by the cyclones in Northland, Tairawhiti and Hawke's Bay in January and February. That's why there will be a focus on alternative species to help control erosion."
Go to https://www.nzffa.org.nz/events/ to find out where the workshops are being held and to register.
Cyclone Vaianu is continuing its track south towards the Bay of Plenty, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rain, and large swells, says Metservice.
While Cyclone Vaianu remains off the East Coast of New Zealand, the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group says impacts have been felt overnight.
A Local State of Emergency has been declared for the Waikato for a period of seven days as the region prepares for Cyclone Vaianu to hit the area.
Farmers will get an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in sheep genetics at the Sheep Breeder Forum this May.
Specialist horticulture and viticulture weather forecasters Metris says the incoming Cyclone Vaianu is likely to impact growers across the country.
A group of old Otago uni mates with a love of South Island back-country have gone the lengths of Waiau Toa Clarence from source to sea. Tim Fulton, who joined the group in the final fun to the river mouth, tells their story.

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