Editorial: Sense at last
OPINION: For the first time in many years, a commonsense approach is emerging to balance environmental issues with the need for the nation's primary producers to be able to operate effectively.
Environment Southland is wanting to see big improvements on last year’s winter grazing practices as it begins its aerial compliance inspections today.
Today’s flight, weather permitting, is a preliminary one to provide as initial estimation on wintering practice in Southland. Further compliance flights will be undertaken later in late July/August.
Environment Southland chief executive Rob Phillips says last year’s winter grazing practice left a lot to be desired.
“It was a problem across Southland and I am hoping to see clear improvements this year off the back of a concerted effort with industry organisations to get all farmers up to speed with good practice.”
Last winter Environment Southland undertook three aerial inspections resulting in 68 follow up site visits, letters of concern to a further 88 property owners, six infringements and two prosecution cases.
A number of others were referred to Environment Southland’s land sustainability team for advice and support on winter grazing.
As part of the council’s effort to turn the situation around, it initiated a hui last year to bring industry organisations together – DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Federated Farmers, MfE and MPI – to formulate a plan to tackle the problem. They have since provided a range of support to farmers.
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…