Unreal hot air
OPINION: The Hound is perplexed about some of the over-the-top climate catastrophising by mainstream media outlets during the holidays.
Federated Farmers recommends farmers have contingency plans in place in case the current mild El Nino intensifies, bringing a higher risk of drought, Federated Farmers adverse events spokesperson Katie Milne says.
"Summer is looming and some parts of the country are already experiencing drier weather than last year, which for farmers in the summer dry areas means a return to business as usual," Milne says.
"Some regions are already noticeably drier than usual, which is causing some concerns. With summer officially starting tomorrow it is important that farmers have contingency plans in place, such as de-stocking and getting in supplementary feeds.
"It is important not to leave it too long to make decisions. If farmers have good plans ready, they can be proactive rather than reactive if a severe drought does eventuate.
"This is a reminder of how building more water storage systems could revolutionise New Zealand's agriculture.
"While there is no indication of severe drought at this point, Niwa's predictions of below normal rainfall in east coast of the North Island and the top of the South Island are a strong reminder of how vulnerable the New Zealand economy is climatic conditions.
"Obviously we are watching the situation closely.
"It is times like these we see the real value in building more and better water storage schemes, particularly in areas prone to drought. Good water storage would help buffer farmers from the vagaries of the weather."
James and Debbie Stewart from Dairylands in Manawatu impressed judges and took out the 2024 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award.
Manawatu farmers Will Hinton and Kali Rangiawha have scooped the 2024 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year.
More bull breeders are using genetic tools according to the latest research.
Females are dominating the veterinary profession worldwide and many farmers are welcoming this change in the composition of the profession, says Britain's Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Professor Christine Middlemiss.
Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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