Farmers Weekly In Focus AgriHQ

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has released a new report urging New Zealand to address the issue of land-use change so it’s done equitably and in a way that supports rural communities and the environment. Bryan speaks with the commissioner’s chief economist Geoff Simmons about the report.

North Canterbury is very dry and Federated Farmers regional president Karl Dean tells Bryan farmers there are having to make tough decisions as winter begins. Ewes are being culled and for many, buying supplementary feed is just too expensive.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie goes through a new report from the United Nations on methane inhibitors, which warns some of the innovations being developed may not be entirely safe. He says more research is needed to ensure they’re fine for both livestock and humans.

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has released a new report urging New Zealand to address the issue of land-use change so it’s done equitably and in a way that supports rural communities and the environment.

Bryan speaks with the commissioner’s chief economist Geoff Simmons about the report.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie goes through a new report from the United Nations on methane inhibitors, which warns some of the innovations being developed may not be entirely safe. He says more research is needed to ensure they’re fine for both livestock and humans.

North Canterbury is very dry and Federated Farmers regional president Karl Dean tells Bryan farmers there are having to make tough decisions as winter begins. Ewes are being culled and for many, buying supplementary feed is just too expensive.

The Burke brothers – John and Rick – were named Cawthron Freshwater Champions at an awards ceremony in Wellington last week. The twins have spent almost 30 years turning their Kati Kati farm into an environmental exemplar. Rick told Bryan about their journey and the importance their catchment group had in helping them.
 
Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick also gives an update on how changes to immigration laws impact farmers. After initial reservations, he says the amendments to the Accredited Employer Work Visa are good for farmers, but only if the paperwork is done correctly.

And, senior reporters Richard Rennie and Neal Wallace join Bryan to talk about Fonterra’s latest milk price forecasts, the frustration at the slow progress of methane inhibitors through the regulatory system and the state of sheep and beef farmer finances.

The Burke brothers – John and Rick – were named Cawthron Freshwater Champions at an awards ceremony in Wellington last week.

The twins have spent almost 30 years turning their Kati Kati farm into an environmental exemplar. Rick told Bryan about their journey and the importance their catchment group had in helping them.