Irish Dilemma
OPINION: The Irish dairy sector is facing a new dilemma - maintaining year-round fresh milk supplies.
El Nino will still be the main climate driver for the next three months or perhaps even longer despite recent rain, says Chris Brandolino, principal scientist forecasting at NIWA.
Despite recent rain, farmers in drought-affected parts of New Zealand will continue to feel the impacts of El Niño for months, as NIWA's latest seasonal outlook indicates.
The NZ Veterinary Association and the Ministry for Primary Industries are warning farmers to be even more alert for facial eczema with the forecasted strong El Nino conditions.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy has praised farmers' preparations for this summer's El Nino climate pattern, as it shapes up to be one of the strongest on record.
Farmers on the East Coast of the South Island are looking to move their stock to greener pastures as the hot and dry weather conditions continue to intensify.
With the likelihood of a dry summer for many parts of New Zealand sheep farmers need to prepare now, says Professor Paul Kenyon, Massey University.
With the country now experiencing an El Nino cycle, farmers are seeking all available information to help them plan ahead.
The Rural Support Trust is getting information out early about help available in case the El Nino brings drought, says Northland Rural Support co-ordinator Julie Jonker.
OPINION: The Irish dairy sector is facing a new dilemma - maintaining year-round fresh milk supplies.
OPINION: Could beef cows play an increasingly important role in improving profitability and resilience on hill country farms?