R&D key to profit

It’s critical that research keeps evolving, as new challenges arise, such as the emergence of new diseases or environmental pressures. Our approach to R&D is multi-pronged. Alongside profitability and productivity, we also consider the human elements of farming, the social issues and drivers, environmental challenges, animal health and welfare. R&D underpins all of this.

Over the last few years, we have been undertaking major work into facial eczema (FE) and gastrointestinal parasites – applying new science to issues which have been consistent longstanding problems for farmers. As part of building new knowledge of FE, we have just launched a groundbreaking piece of research where we aim to work with 350 farmers – 22 from every region of the country – who will collect samples of sheep poo for us from October- May for three years.

Scientific analysis of this will help fill gaps in our understanding of FE’s prevalence and whether a warming climate will have an effect on its distribution. We are currently recruiting farmers for this programme, regardless of whether the farm has experienced FE or not, and are keen to hear from any who would like to be involved. Farmers can express their interest in participating in the facial eczema research study by registering their details at https://beeflambnz.com/FEstudy.

Our parasite research is focused on supporting farmers to make the best decisions about treating animals for parasites and is informed by the Wormwise programme.

We have a test group of farmers in the Wairarapa, who are working with a facilitator to learn about the ‘101’ of parasite treatment, while also sharing their own approaches and systems. There are about 11 farmers in the group and every one of them has made changes to their systems because of this work. We are looking to expand this approach around the country. We have also initiated work to develop a new approach to identify gastrointestinal parasite species.

The Hill Country Futures programme, finishing this year, focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand hill country, including a very significant amount of research into forages (plants suitable for grazing animals).

We are also working in partnership with others for a Northland-focused programme on resilient forages.

In terms of New Zealand geography, Northland is where the impacts of climate change are expected before the rest of the country.

Forages may not readily adapt to the climate that is coming, so it’s about how to give farmers the right tools and solutions to be best prepared to adapt and still be in a position to feed their animals.

All of these areas of research are expected to have a major positive impact on farmers’ productivity and profitability and demonstrate the value of how we invest in farmers’ futures.

Dr Suzi Keeling is Beef + Lamb New Zealand sector science strategy manager