MSA triumph
OPINION: Methane Science Accord, a farmer-led organisation advocating for zero tax on ruminant methane, will be quietly celebrating its first foray into fertiliser co-operative governance.
Greg Campbell has taken over from long-serving CEO Rodney Green as head of the billion-dollar farmers' co-operative, Ravensdown.
Campbell was previously CEO of Ngai Tahu Holdings Corporation and brings international experience as a chief executive. He is in on the boards of a number of companies and has previously been on the board of PGG Wrightson.
"The agricultural sector is the pillar of New Zealand's economic prosperity and it's important we manage our soil, water and air in a sustainable manner," Campbell says.
"Carefully-managed pasture-based production is the best way to meet our output targets while taking care of the environment," he says.
He says the co-operative structure of Ravensdown appeals to him, as the company is not driven by share price or short-term focus.
"Essentially the profits are returned to our owners and customers. We are able to invest in products and services that will underpin the company, our owners' businesses and the future of New Zealand agriculture."
The Chairman of Ravensdown, Bill McLeod says: "Greg is someone who will continue the innovative direction Ravensdown has taken for some years while maintaining the culture we have with customers, staff and suppliers."
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.

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