Dairy earnings bounce back
"We at Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and you at Dairy News said over six months ago that the dairy industry would bounce back, and it has done so with interest.”
The first phase of a Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation into allegations of mistreatment of sheep connected to shearing practices has been completed.
The investigation follows claims from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) of shearers kicking and beating sheep on a farm linked to former American TV show host Matt Lauer.
MPI director compliance and response, Glen Burrell says the animal welfare team at MPI has analysed 235 video files and continue to speak to PETA, industry groups and farm owners.
They have also made “proactive” visits to farms, he says.
“I want to thank everyone for their support and cooperation so far,” Burrell says.
“We have identified some instances in the video footage which are very concerning, and these are our focus in the next phase of the investigation,” he says.
“There are a range of actions we can take in response, to ensure the protection of animals and to hold those who mistreat animals to account. In this case it could include prosecution and disqualifying individuals from working with animals.”
Separate to the investigation, MPI is working with wool sector groups to establish an oversight group to support good animal welfare practice and continuous improvement in the industry.
Reducing nitrogen inputs does not necessarily mean reducing profits, says DairyNZ principal scientist Ina Pinxterhuis.
Southland Federated Farmers president Jason Herrick says farmers are prepared for winter grazing every year.
The a2 Milk Company (a2MC) is launching a new round of grants to support projects aimed at enhancing dairy farming sustainability via the a2 Farm Sustainability Fund.
DairyNZ is inviting applications for an associate director position.
Dairy's superpowers are lifting their game on proving greenhouse gas credentials.
Taupo-based low-carbon dairy company Miraka has its sights set on using 100% renewable energy in the next decade.
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