DROUGHT HAS prompted many more farmers to look hard at how they handle and feed silage, says equipment supplier Webbline.

IN A move apparently designed to appease farmers affected by its One Plan, Horizons Regional Council now proposes all farmers who need a consent under the One Plan will get one – to continue farming.  

The annual South Island Dairy Event was held at Lincoln last week and while many sessions were sector specific, there were plenty of take-home messages for the wider farming industry. Andrew Swallow reports.

MPI IS sounding a caution about debt in the dairy sector.

DAIRY FARMERS and drystock colleagues wintering dairy cattle, were battling to keep feed in front of stock, and shelter behind them last week as winter struck with a vengeance.

FONTERRA AND listed Australian milk processor Warrnambool Cheese & Butter (WCB) have announced an opening price of A$5.60/kgMS for this season, 5c more than rival Murray Goulburn.

YOUNG STOCK represent the future of a dairy farm. They are also a significant investment with the cost of rearing a heifer to her first lactation estimated to be $1200. Optimal weight gain and health during rearing are essential to ensure the newly calved heifer produces milk to her genetic potential, gets back in calf quickly and has good health so she stays in the herd long-term. 

TWO NEW appointees to the Dairy Women’s Network will help grow membership in regional groups, offer more training and support emerging leaders, says executive chair Michelle Wilson.

MAKING THE most of a higher milk price will be discussed at a Northland Focus Farm field day on the farm of Alister and Lyn Candy, at Okaihau on July 2. DairyNZ will be in support.

SAM CAPES is switching permanently to once-a-day milking to restore some sanity to his hectic life as dairy farmer.