M. bovis - we need to be vigilant
From November 1, 2023, Ministry for Primary Industries’ Mycoplasma bovis Eradication Programme has been contracted out to disease management agency OSPRI, as it enters a long-term surveillance phase.
The past week has seen a further four herds test positive for tuberculosis (TB) in Hawke’s Bay.
OSPRI reports that there are now twelve herds infected with TB in Hawke’s Bay, including nine beef farms and three dairy farms.
A beef herd previously under investigation is now confirmed to be infected and three additional herds have been added to investigations.
The increase in infected herds represents a 50% jump in cases, with OSPRI reporting eight herds infected last week.
Ten herds are currently being investigated for TB, three of which are new from last week.
The number of herds being investigated is slightly lower than the eleven being tested last week, with investigations being closed for two herds after testing showed no infection.
A total of 56,916 animals have been tested since 1 November 2019.
For infected herds, two clear, whole herd tests six months apart are required to achieve clear status
Current possum control operations progressing: ground control work in Waitara Valley, Tarawera, Opouahi, Tutira, Waipatiki, Willowflat and Mohaka Forest; aerial control operations scheduled to start in Te Awahohonu-Ahimanawa and Waitara Valley before June.
OSPRI’s Hawke’s Bay TB response webpage has been revised with the latest information for farmers – go towww.ospri.co.nz/hawkes-bay
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.