From the CEO: Our Good Reputation
OPINION: Harvest begins, and almost immediately we start to get media enquiries about how the vintage is going and whether it is going to be a good year for New Zealand wine.
The Waikato Regional Council is urging farmers help stop the spread of dangerous weeds in the Waikato region.
At this time of year stock feed is harvested and sold for use during winter. However, such feed can contain weeds that can be spread along with the feed.
Waikato Regional Council’s pest plants team leader Wendy Mead says farmers can do their bit to help prevent weed spread by asking local feed sellers to guarantee feed such as hay and silage are weed free.
Farmers should also be alert to the risk of weed spread when buying feed from neighbouring regions.
“Some serious crop weeds of very limited distribution in the Waikato, such as Noogoora bur, are known to be more common in some neighbouring regions,” says Mead.
“Don’t be shy asking suppliers about any past weed problems with their feed and if feed can be inspected prior to purchase.
“If feed comes from overseas, only buy from reputable dealers and again ask for a guarantee that it is weed free.
“Keep records of where feed comes from and where it is fed out in case any weeds develop later.”
Mead says the council is happy to provide advice on what to look for during feed inspections and how to deal with any issues or problems that arose.
Farmers can call 0800 BIOSEC (246732) to contact the pest plants team.
Key pest plants that are at risk of spreading through stock feed are Noorgoora Burr, alligator weed, and velvetleaf.
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.
A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.
One of the country's top Māori sheep and beef farms is facing a five-year battle to get back to where it was before Cyclone Gabrielle struck just over 14 months ago.
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