Leave the water rules to locals – Neal wallace:
When water arrived in Maniototo 34 years ago it not only transformed the region’s dryland farms but also Geoff Crutchley’s views on water management.
Crutchley was initially reluctant to become involved in the murky world of water and irrigation management but was prodded into action in response to what he considered inflated water prices being demanded by the precursor to the Maniototo Irrigation Company.
So began an involvement that continues today but which has challenged some of his previous views while shaping others.
His experience has formed views on three issues in particular. . .
Wilding pine effort set to triple – Jono Edwards:
The attack effort on Otago’s wilding pines seems set to treble.
Over the past year, $1.8 million was spent controlling 332,000ha in the region through the Ministry of Primary Industry-led wilding conifer control programme.
At a recent Otago Regional Council meeting, chief executive Sarah Gardner said she was told by ministry staff the work would soon triple.
This was echoed by the Central Otago Wilding Conifer Control Group.
Ministry Wilding Conifer Programme manager Sherman Smith said phase one was 85% complete and planning for the second phase was under way. . .
Improving farm performance – one effluent pond at a time – Jim van der Poel:
As a dairy farmer, I take great pride in looking after my farm – its animals, the grass under their feet, our team and how we protect the environment. Every aspect contributes to a successful business.
So, like many farmers, I am disappointed when a few let down the majority. There have been some instances this year of poor effluent compliance, despite many farmers doing great work in this space.
All dairy farmers have a responsibility to manage the effluent from their cows and it is taken seriously by the vast majority who are investing in reliable, sustainable farm systems. . .
Ex-director suggests Fonterra suspends dividends – Sudesh Kissun:
A former Fonterra director says the co-op could suspend dividends to shore up its balance sheet rather than sell key assets.
Greg Gent says farmers and investors would understand if the co-op suspended dividends to get its books in better shape. And it could suspend dividends and sell some assets that don’t align with its new strategy.
However, he wants to see the co-op’s strategy before decisions are made on selling assets. . .
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of 2018 – Jamie Mackay:
The Country radio host Jamie Mackay takes a look at the highs and lows for rural New Zealand in 2018.
The Good:
The weather:
This time last year much of the country was in a screaming drought – a farmer’s worst nightmare. Although Mother Nature absolutely forgot to turn the tap off in November and early December, at least once we dry out there will be grass for Africa and for more than quite a few sheep, cattle and deer.
Mycoplasma bovis:
Twelve months ago many were resigned to living and farming with bovis. If a week’s a long time in politics, a year is an eternity in farming. I wouldn’t be so bold as to suggest bovis is beaten but we’ve given it a hell of fright in 2018. . .
Bird veteran still has pluck – Alan Williams:
The glamorous part of the year is over for long-time poultry exhibitor Doug Bain.
After several months of winter and spring shows around the South Island with a lot of ribbons and accolades it is back to the real work of breeding hens and ducks for next year.
“You need to have a reason to get up in the morning. It’s a hobby for me,” the 82-year-old says.
He doesn’t keep count of the birds he breeds and has no preferences.
“I like them all.” . .
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