TB plan review to focus on possum hot spots
New Zealand is closer to eradicating bovine TB than ever before, but possums remain a threat, says Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
OSPRI will carry out on-farm TB testing, following AsureQuality's decision not to renew their contract.
Simon Andrew, OSPRI's general manager, disease control planning and integration says they are excited by this step in OSPRI's growth as an integrated disease management agency.
"Livestock TB testing remains an indespensible part of the TBfree programme, and we're working hard to ensure it continues at cattle and deer farms across New Zealand," says Andrew.
"By insourcing the service, it brings us closer to our farmers and that's particularly important given the crucial part they play in our TB eradication programme."
Andrew says it also introduces more agility, whether that's responsiveness to emerging technology or when changes in TB testing are needed quickly.
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.