ATS News FE B RUA RY / MA R C H 2 0 1 1
Rakaia Gorge provides a farming future for UK family
Raising Spuds— Canuck vs. Kiwi Sky the limit for Canterbury agri‑business family
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From the CEO
Upcoming Events
We are already more than a month into 2011 and the Christmas and New Year chaos is well and truly behind us. I hope you and your families found time to relax and unwind over the holiday period, and you are all rested and refreshed, ready for another busy year.
6 February
Contributors
Waitangi Day
Victoria Rutherford, Pip Hume, Edzo Kok, Ele Ludemann, Richard Rennie, Ian Walsh, Annette Scott, Dr Ian Hodge and Dr Rob Derrick
For some the end of the financial year will be looming and many of our local farmers will also be at or nearing the end of their busy harvest season. No matter what your farming operation, all farmers will be mindful of weather and financial trends and predictions for 2011.
Meet the Land and Water Forum in Timaru 7pm–9:30pm The Function Centre, The Landing Service Building, 2 George Street, Timaru
This is traditionally a good time to take stock and see where you are heading, and many will be working on budgets and business plans. It’s always worthwhile to see where you have been and to plan for where you want to be in the short and long term future. Two farming families featured in this ATS News have obviously taken this approach. The Mawle family, originally from the UK, have made the Rakaia Gorge their new home, while also providing a better future for the next generation, and Methven farmer and aviator, Don Hart talks about his operations and his move into biological farming. Also featured in this issue are the first-hand observations of potato farming in Canada and New Zealand as seen by Edzo Kok who has 25 years of experience with McCain Food Ltd (in both countries)—he’s also the father of one of ATS’s marketing team members. There’s also another Kids Page, which proved very popular in the last issue, especially with our budding artists. Colouring Competition entries will remain on display in the Ashburton Customer Lounge until the end of February. There’s certainly plenty to interest all in this ATS News and I hope you find time to read the informative articles written and supplied with you in mind.
Neal Shaw, Chief Executive
9 February Meet the Land and Water Forum in Christchurch 7pm–9:30pm Commodore Airport Hotel, 449 Memorial Avenue, Christchurch
Photography
10 February
15–18 March Federated Farmers Employment Seminars Various times and locations including Temuka, Geraldine, Mt Somers, Tinwald, Rakaia, Leeston and Lincoln. For more info email: events@fedfarm.org.nz
Victoria Rutherford, Nikki Craig
Advertising Enquiries Please contact the Marketing Department on: Tel: 03 307 5100 Email: info@ats.co.nz www.ats.co.nz
Editorial Enquiries Our team welcome your contributions, enquiries and letters.
20–25 March
Please post or email to:
International Farm Management Congress 2011, Christchurch For more info: www.nzipim.co.nz
Chris Bristol GM Marketing & Business Development/Editor chris.bristol@ats.co.nz
30 March–1 April South Island Agricultural Field Days Lincoln University Farm
Front Page Photo John Mawle
ASHBURTON
METHVEN
RAKAIA
HEAD OFFICE
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PO Box 131 Ashburton Tel: 03 307 5100 Fax: 03 307 6721 ats@ats.co.nz
DISCLAIMER: All information contained within ATS News is to the best of the author’s knowledge true and accurate. Opinions expressed are those of the author and not of Ashburton Trading Society. Items herein are general comments only and do not constitute or convey advice. This newsletter is issued as a helpful guide to members.
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pg2 Rakaia Gorge provides a farming future for UK family
Providing their children with a future farming opportunity has been the driving force behind a UK family’s move to New Zealand
Contents 5
The challenge for irrigators
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Opinion—Ele Ludemann
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Pasture genetics important for Lismore Dairies
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pg6 Raising Spuds— Canuck vs. Kiwi
“We arrived in NZ from Canada in 2003 when the Kiwi dollar was low and companies couldn’t process fruit and vegetables fast enough to satisfy what seemed like an insatiable export appetite for very affordable NZ produce”
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Sky the limit for Canterbury agri‑business family
Don Hart will chuckle at the apparent irony of operating a successful agricultural aviation business, whilst also embracing a less than conventional farming approach on his home farm
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Meeting installation deadlines for irrigation metering
Thoughts from across the rivers
Highly productive cows deserve equally productive pastures
Optimistic future for property market Property Brokers
New Year, new name, new home AutoSparks
Transformation ticks all the boxes Neumanns Tyre Services
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The history of Mid‑Canterbury soils
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A family affair
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Farmer support package crucial for irrigation industry
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Basic testing key to beating BVD
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Kids page
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News at ATS
Lushingtons Garden Centre
Selenium—one for the faint hearted?
Classifieds
Ellie Mawle doing the rounds with the Pasture Meter
Rakaia Gorge provides a farming future for UK family
Providing their children with a future farming opportunity has been the driving force behind a UK family’s move to New Zealand. By Victoria Rutherford John and Jean Mawle along with twin sons Rob and Tom and daughter Ellie farm a 1250 cow dairy unit on the south bank of the Rakaia Gorge, at the foot of Mt Hutt.
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agriculture and our daughter Ellie has a degree in applied consumer science.”
The move here is a challenge the entire family has embraced, boots and all.
Jean, previously a PE Teacher, and on leaving the UK an antiques dealer, has been a rock during the conversion and especially calving for all of the family.
Rob and Tom came here on their OE in 2004 and began carving out their pathways in the local farming scene, both having worked contracting in their early days in Mid Canterbury, with Rob branching off into dairy while Tom worked on a high country property.
“All three currently work on the farm here, and it is a way of using (our) capital to provide us with a living, and the three children the opportunity to use our capital in their useful working life rather than wait until we are pushing up the daisies,” said John.
“Jean and I—we have been relatively lucky in life and we have earned a bob or two, both the boys have degrees in
The option to purchase more land was a large drawcard, as it enabled the whole family to farm as a collective unit. The
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Tom Mawle
nature of land ownership in the UK means many farmers hold onto their land and rent to gain tax advantages, leading to small parcels of land. “We share-farmed 2500 acres of arable and 500 acres of grassland spread over two counties at a radius of 25 miles—it takes a long time to get around that,” said John. The Mawles owned 300 acres of mainly arable and had a beef cow herd of 150–175 head. John reared all progeny and bought in stores as well. They later went into industrial units which John said “provided 95% of the income and 5% of the work”—a far cry from the previous agricultural land use which he said was precisely the opposite. A trip to New Zealand while their sons were working out here opened up the possibilities of a new challenge. “Two to three years before we came over to emigrate we came over on a holiday and we did the whole of New Zealand. We did this area—over the Rakaia River Gorge Bridge—and we passed a farm not far from there that was for sale and I said “that’s the kind of farm I’d like to live on”. Two years searching, 45 potential properties and 12 months of negotiation with the property’s absentee Japanese owners saw the Mawles take over the 800 acre deer farm in the summer of 2006. “I’ve been involved in farming all my life, and it doesn’t take much to pick a good area when you see one. I was looking (for a farm) along HW72
from the Rangitata to the Rakaia down to Barhill, as I felt that area suited my style.” They farmed beef cattle for two years, adding an adjoining 200 acres originally belonging to Blackford Station, and leasing 400 acres off the previous farm owners. While a switch to dairying was not necessarily foremost, economically, it made sense. “I think it is obvious if you want to earn a living for four families—you can’t do it from sheep and beef on 1400 acres. “My idea coming to New Zealand was to buy a pack of dogs and a couple of quad bikes and have nothing more to do with machinery, but when we got here the reality kicked in and we realised we weren’t going to be able to do what we wanted. “We decided to get into dairying particularly as my son was doing very well on his 50:50 sharemilking.” Rob had moved into sharemilking with a herd of 350 cows in his second year dairying.
John Mawle
The Mawles looked at converting to dairy early on, but put the project on hold for 12 months until Rob could come back home after working four seasons away. They completed fencing, reticulation, drainage and regrassing before the dairy shed was built. It became operational in August 2010, and they now milk a crossbred herd through a 60 bale rotary shed. Rob is the managing director of the enterprise, ATS NE WS
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and is in charge of the stock and Tom looks after the other aspects of the farm work. John says Ellie is a late but enthusiastic convert to farming, this season rearing 340 heifer calves and some jersey bull calves for next year. She looks after all the office work and does the pasture metering while two hardworking and capable workers, Roger and Arnulfo, originally from the Philippines, round off the team in the dairy shed. The original farm infrastructure was below par, so a full scale development plan was undertaken. Scrub was cleared off shingle fans, 60% of the farm was repastured and lanes were added the length and breadth of the property.
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When it comes to the home front, the move has been made easier with Rob, Tom and Ellie’s respective partners all making the move from the UK to New Zealand to live. Rob has just recently married Stacey, while Tom is due to marry Claire in June next year and Ellie is supported by her partner Tim.
“We topped up (the lanes) with clay as opposed to chalk, and have found it a good surface, not washed or blown away by the winds, which is one of the drawbacks of farming here.”
While they do miss their friends in the UK, many have been to visit and John expects there will be more with the forthcoming rugby World Cup.
Unlike most dairy farmers, the Mawles are aiming to put two to three kilometres of trees on their property to help protect their assets. Last year, fodder beet was grown for wintering stock, but the wind shredded leaves and the climate was a bit harsh.
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He says the conversion to dairy has been a challenge he has relished. “I enjoy the daily read-out you get from your milk tanker when they arrive with the results.” He likes the more instant results dairy farming offers as it allows them to analyse and implement change in their system.
“The farm was pretty much a blank canvas. (We have kept) some strategic deer fencing to keep cows in the event of snow, but we re-fenced 900 acres.
Whilst the climate is often warmer in the gorge due to a warm airflow created by the nor-west winds, it is also these winds that cause havoc.
Roger and Arnulfo
very well throughout the winter, but for the cost of it this year I think we will stick to kale.” John says pest management and the relative isolation of the property are a couple of new challenges added to the mix.
“We put our young stock on it last year and they did
However, they say the welcome they have received here has been terrific on all accounts. “We have been very warmly welcomed by everyone up the Rakaia valley on both sides of the river, and we certainly have a great deal of friends, which we are very pleased about. “We really have had a good introduction into New Zealand farming, this is a beautiful area, and Mt Hutt is an iconic place,” he says.
The challenge for irrigators There’s some nervousness about the ability of providers to meet installation deadlines for irrigation metering required under new national regulations. By Pip Hume However WatermetricsNZ General Manager Andrew Neill remains confident farmers will heed industry warnings of the consequences for not completing the work on time. “There will definitely be difficulties if people leave getting their metering equipment installed until the last minute,” he said. “We are in for a busy period but the industry will cope so long as the demand is reasonably steady.” Named by Environment Canterbury as one of two Preferred Water Meter Service Providers (2009), the Hydrocom alliance, which includes WaterMetricsNZ, has shown the capability to undertake the full suite of services required. This includes the supply of technology, installation services and data logger/ telemetry systems to ensure compliance with The Resource Management (Measurement and Reporting of Water Takes) Regulations 2010.
“The impact of the regulations is significant for Canterbury, with over 50% of the nation’s consented water takes in this region.“ The regulations came into effect on 10th November 2010, and while most irrigators are well aware of the effect of these regulations, many have not yet begun the process of ensuring their own compliance. The regulations fall under Section 360 of the Resource Management Act. In essence, they require that all holders of water consents allowing the take of fresh water at a volume greater than five litres per second must keep records that provide a continuous measurement of the water taken, including the cumulative volume on a daily basis. The regulations do not apply to permitted takes—for example domestic, fire-fighting, stock water and water permit takes at a rate less than 5 l/s. While the regulations apply immediately to consents granted on or after 10th November 2010, they allow for a transitional period for existing consents.
The compliance dates are: >20 litres per second
10th November 2012
>10 l/s, <20 l/s
10th November 2014
> 5 l/s, <10 l/s
10th November 2016
< 5l/s
Not required under the Regulations
The regulations apply to all existing consents, without the need to review these or impose additional conditions. They are monitored and enforced nationally by regional councils, with individual regional councils determining how the regulations work in practice in each region. The impact of the regulations is significant for Canterbury, with over 50% of the nation’s consented water takes in this region. There are approximately 7,400 consented ground water takes, of which 26% are currently metered, and a further 1,350 surface takes, of which 8% are currently metered. The majority of consented water takes in Canterbury fall into the >20l/s band, which requires compliance by 10th November 2012. Recognising that implementation of the new regulations would be very demanding on its resources, Environment Canterbury took a proactive role, setting up a Regional Water Metering Team to consult with the irrigation industry and farmers generally, to establish best practice and develop acceptable technology systems and solutions. This process resulted in Environment Canterbury setting up a programme to provide guidance and set standards for the water measuring industry, to ensure that water metering services and technology in Canterbury are fit for purpose, cost effective, and take into account future technological changes and improvements.
Contact:
Andrew Neill Tel: 03 307 6153 Fax: 03 307 6152 Email: andrew@watermetrics.co.nz Web: www.watermetrics.co.nz
The programme also aims to reduce ongoing compliance costs, and ensures resource consent holders can install and operate cost-effective and reliable water measuring systems. ATS NE WS
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Raising Spuds—Canuck vs. Kiwi We arrived in NZ from Canada in 2003 when the Kiwi dollar was low and companies couldn’t process fruit and vegetables fast enough to satisfy what seemed like an insatiable export appetite for very affordable NZ produce. By Edzo Kok, Executive Director of Potato Growers of Alberta and formerly Manufacturing Director, McCain Food Ltd (Western Canada, New Zealand)
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Three years later we were returning to Canada, leaving behind a wounded industry that had once again been sent staggering by an over-valued NZ currency. While our stay was short, it did allow me an appreciation for farming in another part of the world, one much different from where I was raised. Our son, Kyle, has since moved back to NZ, following his heart (a very pretty young Vet), and coincidentally gaining employment with Ashburton Trading Society. Kyle has asked me to share with ATS Members my experience and knowledge of raising potatoes in Canada and point out some of the different challenges and opportunities that face Canadian Potato Growers. Potatoes are grown commercially in all parts of Canada, from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland and the 7,000km in between. Production has hovered around 4.6 million tonne annually from an average of 142,000ha (compared with New Zealand’s 500,000 tonne from around 10,000ha). I’ve been fortunate to have been exposed to most of the growing areas however I will keep my comments to the most productive area and the place I call home—Alberta. While more commonly known for its oil sands (second largest reserves in the world) Alberta is the third largest potato producing province in Canada. Alberta grows 20,000ha of spuds with 75% grown for the chip and crisp market, 20% grown for seed, and the remaining 5% going to the table market. The most significant difference between farming in Canada vs. New Zealand are the winters that dictate our start and finish dates and impact the pest and disease levels. Recently a good Kiwi friend visited us in winter and was quite shocked when I took him fishing and drove out onto a frozen lake with my pick-up truck. He was at ease once he drilled the first few holes through the 1m thick ice and was even happier when he pulled the first fish through the hole. It is those extremely low temperatures, -30 to -40 degrees at times, that freeze the soil deep and eliminate many pests from overwintering and reduces the build-up of any soil-borne diseases. The typical rotation for potatoes is three or four years with cereals, oilseeds, pulses, corn, or sugar beets grown as the rotation crops. Preparation for potatoes starts in the autumn, just prior to freeze-up, and begins with a deep ripping to alleviate compaction followed by a standard tillage and bed forming. The bed forming allows the soil to warm more quickly in the spring and provides ideal soil conditions to plant into. During the bed forming in the autumn and then again in the spring a Dammer Dyker is used to create small pockets every metre within the furrow between the rows. These small pockets trap precipitation and eliminate the stream effect that can occur within the furrow. The net effect is the high ground doesn’t experience moisture run-off and the lower areas don’t pond. During the autumn field prep potash is broadcast and phosphate fertiliser is banded into the beds. A few tonnes of compost per hectare have become a common practice, especially in the sandier soils. By the end of October the ground is beginning to freeze and it’s time to put away the equipment until April. With a short growing season, typically less than 150 frost free days, it is critical to get the commercial crop in early to ensure it reaches maturity by harvest.
By April 15 planting is underway and usually gets done within three weeks. Most growers are using 6-row equipment, a few now converting to 8-row. The winter freeze has broken down most of the lumps and the beds offer up mellow and warm soil conditions. Growers cut and treat their seed just prior to planting, using a fungicide and insecticide. Most of the commercial crop is planted on a 1m row space with 30cm in-row spacing. Slow release nitrogen fertiliser is becoming more popular, going down with the seed and requiring less fertigation through the pivots later in the season.
Edzo Kok
The Southern Alberta climate is hot and dry which makes irrigation critical to the success of the crop. Irrigation water comes from the melting snow pack of the Rocky Mountains which is captured in reservoirs during the spring thaw and delivered to the growing region throughout the season. A network of 6,000km of canals and pipelines will provide 45cm of water to half a million hectares of farmland. Disease and pest pressure is minimal with the biggest threat being Mother Nature and her propensity to unleash damaging hail storms after extremely hot days. Crop insurance is not an option in this area; your banker will insist that you are covered! Harvest begins in mid-August on early varieties that get delivered direct to the factories. By mid-September it is time to start harvesting and storing the main crop. Light frosts are common in September and act as the top-kill. Most Growers will want to dig the crop green, attempting to achieve maximum yields. The Russet Burbank, the main processing variety, seldom reaches natural senescence due to the short season. Yields on this variety are in the 38–43t/ha range. Harvest needs to complete by the end of the first week of October. Beyond this and the frost is getting more severe and the tubers will be getting “nipped’ in the ground, resulting in storage and quality issues. Storages are designed to insulate the potatoes against the -30 temperatures in the winter and the +30 temperatures of the summer. Growers are required to store and deliver their potatoes for 10 months of the year, which requires enclosed loading areas attached to their storage and insulated delivery trailers. Some compare raising potatoes not far from milking cows! This is one part of the potato farming operation that differs significantly from NZ, where the growers can deliver all of their crop off-field directly to the processor’s storages. Many would wonder why a farmer would want to get involved in such a high-input, high-risk crop. In Canada, like many other parts of the world, there are fewer crops that deliver a decent rate of return. A typical 400ha potato operation in Alberta would have $5 million invested in equipment and another $5 million invested in storages. Cost of production is reaching $8,500 per/ha. If you make that 38t/ha you pay the bills, if you get to 43t/hectare you can make some decent money. While we all say we farm for the love of it, the money is nice to have too! It would be a tough question as to who has it better, the Kiwi or the Canuck Potato Grower. I’m sure if you asked one of them they would point to the other. Regardless of which one it is, deep down I know they would rather be doing nothing else.
Short growing seasons are the norm with typically less than 150 frost free days
Harvest needs to be completed by early October prior to severe frosts
Storages are designed to insulate the potatoes against the -30 temperatures in the winter and the +30 temperatures of the summer
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Thoughts from across the rivers “New Zealand’s ewenique—60 million sheep can’t be wrong. ”That was a slogan on a tee shirt more than two decades ago when New Zealanders used to have more than 20 sheep each. By Ele Ludemann At that time our human population was around 3 million and soon after our ovine one peaked at more than 70 million. Sheep numbers then declined and the number of people increased so we now have only about 10 sheep each. At the same time the dairy population has grown and we now have more cows than people.
We think that will be better for staff and stock. When you get up to 1200 cows your manager has to manage people and that’s generally harder than managing stock and feed. With smaller herds you can employ lower order sharemilkers who are highly motivated. Many are couples who have to employ only one other fulltime worker.
Statistics released by Dairy NZ and Livestock Improvement in December showed the milking cow population had risen to 4.4 million, compared with 4.39 million people.
“We interviewed staff late last year and were very impressed by the calibre and enthusiasm of applicants.”
While we still farm sheep, and last year went back to breeding our own for the first time in about 14 years, we have also contributed to the increase in cow numbers.
Larger herds increase milking time which means longer days for staff. It also means more time offfeed for cows and they have to walk further to get to the shed.
We converted to dairying in 1985 and started milking a herd of 400 cows. We had drilled and found underground water and built a dam which enabled us to store water over winter. That increased the area we were able to irrigate which in turn increased the number of cows we could run.
One of the big concerns with bigger herds is effluent. With three smaller herds and three separate sheds if something goes wrong with one we can be reasonably sure it’s due to either an equipment or people problem rather than something wrong with the system.
We built up the herd over a couple of seasons to 600 and then when a new irrigation scheme was developed we built another shed and got up to 1200 cows. It hasn’t been all smooth going. We had on-going problems with TB. In spite of continual testing and culling of the herd it was only when a cow dried herself off and was sent to the works that we found the carrier. Like most other dairy farmers, we could write a book about learning experiences with workers and this is one of the reasons we’re now in the middle of preparations to build a third shed to run three smaller herds.
We interviewed staff late last year and were very impressed by the calibre and enthusiasm of applicants. They will start work in June and by this time next year we’ll have a good idea whether or not building a third shed and reducing herd numbers was the right mo(oo)ve. We’ve learned a lot from dairying and some of the lessons can be applied to sheep farming too. Pasture management techniques which are so important to healthy cows and milk production also improve production when applied to sheep. So while we’re sticking with dairying we’ll also be doing our bit to reverse the decline in sheep numbers.
Ele Ludemann
opinion by:
Ele Ludemann Web: homepaddock.wordpress.com
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Sky the limit for Canterbury agri-business family
The Hart family: Duncan (left), Sandy, Don and Andrew
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Don Hart will chuckle at the apparent irony of operating a successful agricultural aviation business, whilst also embracing a less than conventional farming approach on his home farm. By Richard Rennie However he is adamant it is an approach that will be mainstream within another decade, and is finding the family aviation business has a big role to play in helping other farmers adopt his approach. Owned by his son Duncan, the Harts operate well known Mid-Canterbury aviation company SkyFarmers Aviation. It is a business built on delivering high analysis fertilisers and targeted sprays to Canterbury crop and pastoral farmers for the past 30 years.
and therefore crop yields and quality. On his death in 1974 a magazine dedicated to his views, Acres USA began, which continues today. A prerequisite for Don was that whatever system he adopted did not involve a loss of crop productivity, and if anything would lift it whilst also improving those key aspects of soil, crop and even animal health. “I was looking for a farm environment that used less chemicals, fertilisers and was an altogether more pleasant place to work with nature.”
It is those sprays and fertilisers Don is applying less of on his own 329ha mixed cropping farm these days, run by his other son Andrew.
His decision has the backing of many farmers in countries facing greater stress on their systems than here in Canterbury.
Don has found a comfortable, and productive, middle ground between organic and conventional farming that is enhancing the farm’s crop yields, whilst also improving animal, soil and crop health on the farm.
For Don the challenge on Springfield’s deep fertile soils has been to maximise the amount of natural N and P that can be added and extracted from them, and reduce the amount “bought in by bag.”
The family’s Springfield Estate property has over a century of farming history, and has long had a reputation in the area as top cropping country. Its deep silty soils hold moisture well and deliver consistently high crop yields. However around 10 years ago Don felt the farm was “hitting the wall” for productivity, with its admirable wheat yields of 14–16t/ha unable to be pushed further without even greater levels of chemical and fertiliser inputs. He believes his unease about future productivity gains mirror that felt by many farmers on established properties around New Zealand. “From the 70s we really saw productivity increase, double in fact on many farms thanks to greater Phosphate (P) and Nitrogen (N) inputs, which were relatively cheap as a percent of commodity prices.” However he was finding himself in a furtive chemical balancing act to maintain production. “Boosting wheat production by applying N we would then need to apply straw shortener to control crop height, and further applications of N for yield meant we were susceptible to disease and aphids, which in turn required spray applications, and on it went… Researching alternate farming methods in the US and Europe, he learned more about the holistic “biological farming” approach, founded on the principles of Dr William Allbrecht. The US agronomist saw a direct link between soil health and food quality. He drew direct connections between poor quality forage crops, and ill health in livestock and from this developed a formula for ideal ratios of cations in the soil.
“I really wanted to lose the ‘more-on’ approach, where you just add more to try and grow more.” Today he buys in and utilises a combination of natural guano phosphates and humates to build soil organic matter up, along with adding 2000t a year of compost he makes himself. But Don has not rejected conventionally sourced nutrients entirely in his pursuit for healthier soils. He continues to source trace elements like magnesium, sodium and boron from fertiliser companies, and calcium is also a critical input. Meantime farm management practices have helped increase the sources of soil sourced N and P.
Don Hart with his fungicide free wheat crop
He and Andrew fatten 6000 lambs over winter running them on winter kale. The kale helps extract N and P from the soil, turned into muck and urine by the lambs, and redeposited to be taken up by spring crops planted next. Above ground, he works on improving plant photosynthesis, valuable in recent months with Canterbury’s grey, low light conditions. Applying a foliage spray containing quantities of magnesium and fish extract to spring wheat and pea crops has ensured high yielding crops again this season, without having to apply insecticides. Higher organic matter, more earthworms, even a “better smelling” soil are all indicators of a healthy system at work that more farmers in the district are taking notice of.
Mixing the beginnings of the successful compost
“We work on needing 25kgN/t of wheat, either sourced from the soil or the bag. We used to apply 300kgUrea/ha, that would now be down to 90100kg/ha to grow a 14t/ha crop of wheat.”
He rejected the conventional view that N, P and K (potash) are the key players in determining soil ATS NE WS
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Aviation business based on firm ground
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The turbine driven roar of aerial topdressing planes underscores the earthbound business of crop farming for Don, and son Duncan who owns and operates SkyFarmers Aviation. With other son Andrew running the farm business, the family are well placed to trial new aerial application techniques and hone existing ones on the intensive cropping farm.
He believes the “bargain basement” approach sometimes used by farmers seeking the lowest cost operator is changing with more farmers supportive of locally owned family businesses like SkyFarmers.
Growing peas, wheat, radishes and finishing lambs over winter (see accompanying article) make it an ideal platform to base the business from with two aeroplanes, a Fletcher 400 and an Air Tractor 420.
Perhaps surprisingly that support has been bolstered by the increase in irrigation and dairying—farmers would prefer to avoid having wheeled sprayers running on farms overlaid with irrigation structures.
SkyFarmers was one of the first companies in New Zealand to invest in the Air Tractor, a USA purpose built machine that is renown for its workhorse capabilities, hauling up to 1.85t of super per trip and around 1700litres of chemical spray.
“For crop farmers flying on chemical also means you are not bringing in any seed contaminants on your machinery either.”
“Farmers are realising the value of supporting local firms run by young blokes like Duncan, and that their support sees companies like ours remain in business.”
Duncan continues to hold something of a company record for moving 250t of lime in a single day with the Air Tractor.
SkyFarmers Aviation has focussed on offering a high quality, precision service to its farmer clients. Don was the first in New Zealand to have GPS mapping on his aircraft. Today on board computers control droplet micron, minimising drift and waste.
“They are highly productive aeroplanes, and we would consider moving to the next size up should the business continue to grow,” says Don.
Meantime Don is finding more clients are keen to listen to his concepts on biological farming, and how it can help reduce the chemical load on their farming system.
The risky job of agricultural aviation has been made safer with an industry initiative to improve air strip safety in recent years, something Don welcomes but stills sees opportunities for improvement in.
“Nor does it mean less work for us, because many of the recommendations are applied as sprays or solids, it’s just a different sort of product being applied.”
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David Mavor (left) and Alan Harrison from ATS discuss the benefits of Alto AR1 ryegrass
Pasture genetics important for Lismore Dairies Highly productive cows deserve equally productive pastures, according to members of a Mid Canterbury equity partnership which has just renewed 12 per cent of its milking platform this past season. Article supplied by Agriseeds “We have the cow genetics to achieve good MS production in this country; now it’s about keeping the feed up to them,” says David Mavor, who with his wife Sally and partners John and Fiona McCarthy comprise Lismore Dairies.
tends to resist pugging a bit more. A dense sward also allows our cows to eat their diet very quickly, then sit down, ruminate and make milk, hopefully! And we wanted something that would maintain pasture quality through late spring.”
First converted in 2006, their 250ha irrigated milking platform will have 30ha of Alto AR1 ryegrass purchased from ATS sown this season, on top of a further 100ha which went into a 150ha run-off bought in autumn 2008.
As of early December Alto was ‘pumping’ on the centre pivot irrigated run-off, notwithstanding two cuts of silage within a month, and 400 heifers to feed.
David says using new pasture genetics is just as important as using new cow genetics for today’s dairy farm systems.
“The partners are this season targeting total production of 425,000kg MS, up from the previous season’s 377,000kg from 720 cows.” Admittedly he doesn’t want to be renovating 30ha on the milking platform every year. That was caused by a combination of wet winter and spring conditions in 2010, which led to pugging damage on some existing pastures; and 20ha of short rotation ryegrass left over from the initial conversion, which needed to be upgraded to perennial pasture. Even so, with grass the biggest source of feed for their 800 Friesian cows, “It only makes sense to maintain and renew with new varieties as they become available,” he says. Lismore Dairies started with a Bronsyn/Impact ryegrass mix and Alto was the natural upgrade, given its fine leaves, dense habit and medium-late flowering date (+14 days). “We’re on Templeton silt loams, which are reasonably heavy and we’ve found fine leaved, dense ryegrass
The partners are this season targeting total production of 425,000kg MS, up from the previous season’s 377,000kg from 720 cows.
“David says using new pasture genetics is just as important as using new cow genetics for today’s dairy farm systems.” Inputs include 1200kg/cow feed supplements (wheat, molasses and mineral pellets, and pasture silage) plus 250kg/ha N. Last winter the whole herd was wintered on the runoff, using kale; this year David says half the herd will be wintered there, along with all young stock. With their own direct drill, getting new grass in the ground is a fast, simple process on the milking platform. A double spray followed by cross drilling at 20kg/ha ryegrass seed and 4kg/ha clover works very well for establishment, and “is worth the extra time”, David says. Applying broadleaf herbicide after clover has emerged is also an important step, as is nipping off young grass to encourage tillering, and strategic application of N. “After that we just spot spray. The other benefit of a good dense ryegrass sward is that the weeds don’t get a chance to get going.”
Contact:
The ATS Seed Team Tel: 0800 BUY ATS (289 287) Web: www.ats.co.nz
For more on Alto ryegrass, talk to ATS Seed today on 0800 BUY ATS.
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Freshen up your home with a new coat of paint! Call Bradford Painting today for a free quote
Bremners Road PO Box 214 Ashburton Phone 308 9039 Fax 308 1191 www.bradfords.co.nz
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Optimistic future for property market The future of the local real estate market is looking brighter despite recent sales results. By Ian Walsh, Property Brokers—Hastings McLeod Recent Farm Sales Activity In December Property Brokers auctioned an attractive dairy farm of 171ha located in Winslow. There was a lot of interest in the lead-up period but on the day the property was passed in on a highest bid of $5,750,000. With the production over the last five years ranging between 231,000 and 245,000kg milk solids, a pivot irrigator and a rotary cowshed, this was well under recent comparable sales. Was this a case of nerves on the day? There has been further interest following the auction and at the time of writing this, it is now on the market with a list price of $6,500,000. Another property of 192 ha suitable for dairy conversion has attracted several offers and is now under contract after a deadline sale process. Mid December also saw the conditional sale of a 240ha grazing property Anama.
Despite these figures, Property Brokers Hastings McLeod has enjoyed a good lift in market share in the second half of 2010. In the second week of December, we had nine properties under contract in our Ashburton Branch—this is in just one week! This leads us to believe the market will be more active in 2011. Real Estate Tip: Pricing to Sell Demand for property is increasing which is good for anyone wanting to sell. We know that selling is not all about price but, having said that careful consideration is still needed when setting your price to ensure you get the best outcome. Compare the two scenarios below: Priced to sell…
Properties for Sale: Anama Station Road Beef fattening/dairy grazing $3,750,000 + GST 259 ha 39 Whartons Road, Nth Otago Suited to any farming practice By Negotiation 152 ha
2 weeks Winslow Willowby Dairy farm $6,500,000 + GST 171 ha
Good demand and sales of lifestyle blocks has been a feature over November and December with most sales being in the $550,000 to $700,000 price bracket. Residential Activity How does the residential market compare with last year in Mid Canterbury? Well, the residential market has been down in numbers by nearly 50% over the August-November period however the rural and lifestyle market is only 26% back on same period last year.
Priced to sit around… 2 weeks
4 weeks Contact:
Property Brokers—Hastings McLeod 324 East Street, Ashburton
Here are the statistics for Mid Canterbury: 1 August– 30 November 2009
1 August– 30 November 2010
Residential
191
108
Farms & Lifestyle
33
25
Sales
6 weeks
12 weeks
Tel: 03 308 8209 Fax: 03 308 8206 Web: www.propertybrokers.co.nz
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Switch on with ATS Take the hassle out of your electricity. Let ATS manage your supply. Options available for all types of farms.
Call Nicky, Christine and the Customer Service Team at ATS on 03 307 5100 or visit our website.
www.ats.co.nz
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AutoSparks new premise, 187 Alford Forest Road
New Year, new name, new home 2011 is set to be an exciting year for Tony and Megan Houston. After trading as Tony Houston Auto Electrical for six years, they are now known as AutoSparks. By Pip Hume “Tony Houston Auto Electrical was too longwinded. It takes a long time to say on the phone and even longer to write when you’re doing the paperwork. We wanted something short and catchy,” said Tony. The new premises at 187 Alford Forest Road are just a few doors away from the former home of the business, but are a big step up in terms of efficiency. With huge front and rear doors, there is drive-through access for vehicles from private cars and farm vehicles right through to big transport trucks and heavy machinery.
“We’ve got a loyal customer base and looking after them and providing the best possible service is what keeps them that way.” The purchase of another established Ashburton auto electrical business, Cool & Electrical at the end of 2010 was another major step for AutoSparks. The addition of two experienced auto electricians and an apprentice to the AutoSparks team has brought a skill set that covers the full range of auto electrical work, from general vehicle work such as batteries, starter motors and alternators, through to spreaders and sprayers. It has also led to some economies of scale. “We’re now operating four auto electricians and an apprentice, with Megan looking after the administration,” said Tony. “We’ve got four fully equipped service vehicles, so there’s no problem getting to urgent break downs or other jobs offsite while also keeping the workshop running as well.” AutoSparks are also now able to offer compete servicing and repair of automotive air conditioning units. Auto electrician and air conditioning
unit expert Andre Van Oudtshoorn joined the business in 2010, bringing with him many years of experience with all types of automotive air conditioning gained in his native South Africa. It’s usual there for the air conditioning units in vehicles to have an annual service check—the filters are replaced, the seals of the pumps are checked and gas topped up if necessary.
“AutoSparks is a dynamic business, changing and growing. For Tony and Megan, their focus on providing the best of customer service will remain their priority.”
AutoSparks Team (left to right) Back: Andre, Brenton Front: Cliffy, Hayley, Tony
With air conditioning in most vehicles in New Zealand now, there is growing demand in this sector of the business, which has led to the purchase of specialist equipment. The Air Conditioning Recovery and Recharging Unit enables the gas to be extracted so that servicing and repairs can be undertaken, and then it is replaced. Another part of the business experiencing growth is the installation of GPS systems which are commonplace not only in private cars but are also extensively used in agricultural contracting and farm machinery. And with the law change last year around the use of mobile phones while driving, hands-free kits are also an essential item for people doing business on the road. AutoSparks is a dynamic business, changing and growing. For Tony and Megan, their focus on providing the best of customer service will remain their priority.
Contact:
Auto Sparks 187 Alford Forest Road Ashburton Tel: 03 307 2696 Fax: 03 307 2628 Email: autosparks@xtra.co.nz
“We’ve got a loyal customer base and looking after them and providing the best possible service is what keeps them that way.”
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Phone Rodney today for advice on your next Asphalt or Chip Seal project on 027 226 3091
ACL WORKSHOP: HERE WHEN YOU NEED US!
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Phone 03 308 4039 www.ashcon.co.nz
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Bark, Soil and Oamaru Stone 100% Organic Compost Rocks and Boulders Sand and Shingles Stones and Concrete Home Deliveries Available!
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Major renovations to the premises of Neumanns Tyres are now completed
Transformation ticks all the boxes The transformation of the Neumanns Tyre Services premises in Ashburton was celebrated in December 2010. By Pip Hume But the decision to upgrade the Wills Street site while continuing to provide service of the highest quality meant that the construction period was a challenge. “Keeping the business going through the various phases of building and development has been a testing time,” said Alan Neumann. “But it’s all been worth it. We’ve got a purpose built facility that operates efficiently and provides a working environment that is good for our staff—and there’s room for a bit more growth, too.”
“The Ashburton office is the central hub of the Neumanns Group, catering for all of the South Island branches as well as the Christchurch retreading plant Tyre Retreaders.” It was inevitable the major construction and site works would cause some disruption to neighbouring businesses and Alan is grateful for the support they have shown and the way everyone has handled the development. The tradespeople working on this major construction project and Neumanns own staff have had to cope with shifting plant and equipment around the site to keep the business operational. “It’s been a bit of a mess and it’s good to see it all finished and tidy,” he said. Neumanns Tyre Services started operating from its present location in 1952. However continuous growth through the years meant that by 2010 they had completely run out of space. There were challenges with having to rent shed space for tyre storage, parking was limited, and there was nowhere to work on large trucks and heavy equipment. “It’s hard to run a business with stock being stored in sheds over the road and all over the place,” said Alan.
Along with a bigger storage area with purpose built tyre-racking, there’s now a drive-through undercover truck bay which separates the bigger trucks and heavy machinery from the car bays. The new Operations Centre is sited within the workshop and oversees the workshop and truck bay as well as the eight fully kitted out call-out service vehicles. These trucks are used for roadside assistance as well as on-farm service. They are fitted with GPS, which Alan says is vital in getting to a stranded motorist or a specific farm locality. The Ashburton office is the central hub of the Neumanns Group, catering for all of the South Island branches as well as the Christchurch retreading plant Tyre Retreaders.
Front Reception
“This is probably where we will focus next. We’re having a look at our IT systems—particularly in the area of importing and exporting invoices. We want to be able to handle all this a bit faster and more efficiently – for example sending invoices from the tyre factory into the branches electronically will take some pressure off.” Neumanns have recently appointed a highly experienced Operations Manager. Based in Christchurch, Patrick Gilchrist has 21 years in the industry, and oversees operations at the Motueka, Nelson, Blenheim and Timaru branches. He can also step into help in Ashburton if required. However, Neumanns is first and foremost a family business, with traditional values. “We do our best to operate the business with integrity. We have good loyal staff that we look to provide job security for. We’re very loyal to our suppliers and don’t chop and change, and we try our best service-wise.”
Contact:
Neumanns Tyres 197 Wills Street Ashburton Tel: 03 308 6737 Fax: 03 308 8591 Email: neumannstyres@ashburton.co.nz Web: www.neumannstyres.co.nz
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We are your specialists for: • Pool construction • Spa pools • Pool & spa chemicals • Servicing & water testing • Pumps & filters • Pool fencing • Automatic cleaners
• Pool heating—solar & heat pumps • Water transfer, pressure tanks, PVC pipe cleaners & fittings, home & farm pressure systems & submersibles, household water testing
• Pool rollers & covers
www.poolandpumpworld.co.nz 20
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The history of Mid-Canterbury soils One of the great breakthroughs in soil science was the recognition that the formation of soils is the result of six major factors: parent material (rock), time, topography, vegetation, climate and man. Article supplied by Jeff Morton, technical advisor, Ballance Agri-Nutrients In Mid Canterbury, the parent material of nearly all the soils is greywacke (compressed sandstone) and the soils have been mainly developed for pastoral and arable use. Prior to widespread settlement, vegetation was largely podocarp forest, which was later burnt, resulting in tussock grasslands over a large area. The influence of time can easily be seen in Mid Canterbury: the youngest, recent soils are those beside the rivers (these soils are only hundreds of years old), while the oldest, Brown soils lie in the foothills (these soils are thousands of years old, e.g. Staveley soils). In this part of Canterbury, topography—the place of the soils on the landscape—is mainly flat, e.g. on the plains and terraces. However, the low-lying areas in the south-eastern corner have formed organic (peat) and gley soils (poorly drained), as shown by Windermere and Waterton soils. But the biggest factor affecting the productivity of Mid Canterbury soils is the depth of fine materials to gravels. This has a major bearing on waterholding capacity. On the alluvial plains beside the rivers, the shallowest soils include Waimakariri and Eyre-Paparua soils. Mayfield and Templeton soils are increasingly deep, and Barhill soils are also deep, because of the deposition of wind-blown loess. On the terrace above the recent soils of the Rakaia River are deeper Chertsey soils, which are Pallic soils (they have a pale subsoil that has been formed from loess). The other significant areas of deeper Pallic soils are those around Methven (e.g. Lyndhurst soils) and Wakanui soils to the east of Ashburton, which are suitable for cropping. Above the Waimakariri soils on the Rangitata River are the Stoney Brown Ruapuna soils.
Just about all the rest of the soils on the plains are the Stoney Brown Lismore soils. They range in depth from 50 to 200 mm and require irrigation to achieve reasonable production. Land use over time has reflected soil depth and water-holding capacity. Dairying was originally carried out mainly on the deeper Recent soils beside the Ashburton River (Templetons and Eyre-Paparuas) before spreading on to the borderdyked Lismores.
“But the biggest factor affecting the productivity of Mid Canterbury soils is the depth of fine materials to gravels.” Cereal cropping was previously carried out on the deeper soils, but these are now being converted to irrigated dairying. Irrigation has mainly compensated for lack of soil depth, so that the financial advantages of dairying have been able to be realised. In contrast, sheep farming has mostly shifted back towards the foothills and inland basins. Knowing the soil type (or types) found on your farm can help you manage the land better. For instance, stonier soils are better drained, and this makes them more resilient—they stand up to stock treading a lot better than the deeper soils. So if you have a portion of your farm with a stonier soil, that’s where to put heavier stock during the wetter months. In general, soil type doesn’t have a huge bearing on your fertiliser needs, although the better the soil, the higher your production, and so the more fertiliser you will need to replace nutrients removed in meat, milk or crops.
contact ats to discuss your fertiliser needs and/or to arrange for advice from your LOCAL ballance TECHNICAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE:
Anna Bedford 027 499 7617 Russell Hamilton 027 677 4499 Michael Robertson 027 464 2972 Tel: 0800 222 090 Web: www.ballance.co.nz
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Lushingtons, Main Road Tinwald.
A family affair Creating a destination where friends and family can enjoy a relaxed browse through a garden centre, giftware and a catch-up over coffee was the vision behind the creation of Lushingtons Garden Centre. By Pip Hume And while sisters Miranda and Sophie Morrow are the faces taking care of the day to day running of the business—Miranda looking after the garden centre and extensive range of giftware and Sophie the café—the enterprise is a family affair, with parents Mark and Nicky Morrow, brother Ben and Miranda’s partner Matt very much involved. The development of the idea began with the purchase of the prime corner site just south of the Ashburton River, as part of succession planning for the family. The intention was for the site to be utilised in some way by the family. “It’s such a fantastic location, highly visible because it’s right on the main road but with easy access and plenty of parking,” said Miranda. “A garden centre had formerly operated from the site, so there was a previously established clientele that was an ideal starting point for us.” With a degree in Marketing and Management, Miranda had spent some time traveling overseas. The ‘garden centre/giftware/café’ concept is a popular business model and many of the ideas from those travels were gathered together to develop Lushingtons.
Sophie has always been interested in food, and the focus at the café is on using the best of local produce, depending on what’s available. Ben is on the family farm at Montalto (inland Mayfield), and ultimately it’s hoped that much of the meat utilized in the café will be home grown. The café has recently added a real fruit icecream machine, which is appealing to adults and children, the health conscious, and those wishing to indulge. Children (young and old!) love watching this machine as it mixes frozen berries with premium grade ice-cream into individual cones.
“The array of giftware features a classical French/English country theme.”
Sophie Morrow (left) and Miranda Morrow
The sisters comment that it’s the support of every member of the family that is driving the business forward. “Dad’s our mentor,” said Sophie. “And Mum is a very hard worker. She’s a doer—everything has to be done right there and then. Ben’s our handyman— he can build anything.”
The array of giftware features a classical French/ English country theme.
They say that any issues are easy to resolve—they are dealt with there and then—and when things go wrong the support is amazing.
“We share the same taste, and our buying decisions reflect that traditional country theme. We try to remain true to that right through the complex.”
Having a good team of staff is also invaluable. The addition of Roger Martin who formerly operated Martin’s Garden Place has added a wealth of gardening knowledge and experience.
Lushingtons
The opening of the café in mid-2010 added a new dimension. A great deal of thought went into planning the area, resulting in a light and airy, family friendly space. The adjoining enclosed courtyard offers sheltered outdoor seating, while the gas fire makes it warm and inviting on cooler days.
The sisters say they have learnt a lot along the way.
Tel: 03 308 6858
“We’ve learnt that nothing comes without hard work, and no question is too stupid to ask. And we’ve got lots of ideas for the future.”
Fax: 03 308 6858
Contact:
5 Archibald Street Tinwald Ashburton
Email: miranda@lushingtons.co.nz sophie@lushingtons.co.nz
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Hay Covers ORD FOR THEER NOW CO SEASONMING
Quality Hay Covers— made to measure 25m x 4m, 25m x 3.6m in stock or made to measure. Available in colours: Olive, Green, Blue, White. Three year UV Warranty
Shade Sails Lounge Suites Specialising in: • • • • • • • • •
Lounge suites Arm chairs Dining chairs Cushions Squabs Antique Furniture Deep Buttoning Foot stools Insurance Claims
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115 Main South Road, Tinwald Ashburton
Tel 03 307 2354 tincanup@xtra.co.nz
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Farmer support package crucial for irrigation industry IrrigationNZ has developed a farmer support package that will help farmers better understand the design and costing process for their irrigation system. By Annette Scott, IrrigationNZ Launched as part of the recent IrrigationNZ national road show, the Farmer Decision Support Package is aimed at giving farmers and irrigation companies a united understanding over the design and costing processes for both new and existing irrigation systems.
Specification guide—aimed at better defining irrigation needs. This walks farmers through the decisions they have to make around their irrigation system in relation to their irrigation requirements and includes crop and soil information and information relevant to climate and irrigation.
Having an understanding of the soils, climate factors and crop demands prior to launching into equipment design is critical to water resource management.
Evaluation guide—will aid farmers in evaluating their quotes, ensuring they can compare like with like, and the recommended ranges within the Irrigation Design Code of Practice.
The design phase must take a ‘whole of life approach’ taking into account the balance between capital expenditure and operational costs such as water, energy, labour, materials and equipment life/deterioration.
Contract check list—assists farmers to draw up their installation contracts ensuring all aspects are covered and therefore getting what they have been quoted, and more importantly what has been paid for.
Identifying farmer need and requirement is key to ensuring the irrigation supply company can meet the needs of the system as history tells us that 90% of the reason why jobs fail is because key information has not been right and it hasn’t been possible to fit performance criteria to the actual requirement.
“Without the outlined knowledge it is virtually impossible to make a reasoned decision.”
That key information is also critical when comparing one company’s quote against another, with a single comprehensive story delivering consistent information that will set the scene for delivery of the optimum system. The package not only helps farmers with their initial design and costing, it also greatly assists irrigation designers as the farmer will effectively put pen to paper to outline what is required, effectively increasing designers’ ability to get it right. If the farmer is clear on what he needs from his irrigation system and the necessary data has been supplied then there is more chance of getting a satisfactory result from the irrigation company. The farmer support package is crucial for the industry to move forward The package contains four components covering the importance of irrigation design standards: System specific ‘real life case studies’—these demonstrate to farmers the importance of good design in terms of the financial implications of getting it wrong.
The irrigation decision support package is designed for irrigators installing new or those upgrading old irrigation systems. The specification component can also be used when applying for or renewing resource consent as it clearly demonstrates irrigation needs to the regulator. Without the outlined knowledge it is virtually impossible to make a reasoned decision. The majority of irrigation system problems in New Zealand stem from long-term operating cost versus upfront capital cost. Most problems IrrigationNZ encounters are due to lack of specification. The package is simple to use and IrrigationNZ urges farmers to use it. The farmers’ irrigation decision support package is available at www.irrigationnz.co.nz Irrigation NZ are ATS Suppliers allowing members to charge their membership to their ATS Card. Contact:
Andrew Curtis, CEO, Irrigation NZ Tel: 03 379 3820, Fax: 03 372 3520, Web: www.irrigationnz.co.nz
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BVD is a complicated disease, manifesting in several ways which can sometimes make it difficult to spot in a herd.
Basic testing key to beating BVD Bovine Viral Diarrhoea or BVD is a widespread viral disease of cattle in New Zealand. By Dr Ian Hodge, Riverside Vets It affects both beef and dairy cattle. The significance of BVD is that it can result in infertility in cattle, and this in turn can lead to low breed replacement rates, high numbers of abortions and slow genetic gain. In dairy cattle practice, if calving rates are slow peak milk production will be impaired at great cost.
Dairy farmers can monitor the BVD status of their herds by bulk milk testing. This is cost effective and provides valuable information. In some situations, persistently infected cows carrying the BVD virus can be located in big herds, and the disease can be well controlled within one season.
BVD has been endemic in New Zealand for many years but only recently are we better able to fully understand the behaviour of the virus within cattle populations. New viral detection techniques have enabled our diagnoses to become far more accurate and we can now find the virus in just about any organ or secretion including milk.
“The best approach to BVD is to know your enemy by doing some basic testing and monitoring. Your Vet will be happy to assist in planning a control programme.”
“Bulls can become infected with the BVD virus, and infections can lead to reduced fertility which, if it occurs at mating time, can have a big negative impact.” Unfortunately BVD is a complicated disease, can manifest in several ways, and the signs of disease in animals affected by BVD can be very similar to many other diseases. Pregnant carrier cows can pass the virus to their unborn offspring and infect other animals in close contact that are naive to BVD. In this way persistent and transient infections are established. Persistent infections in calves mean the animal can shed the virus for life and maintain the disease as long as it lives. If pregnant cows become infected early in pregnancy they are at risk of losing that pregnancy. The resulting infertility in those animals can be long lived, and they are ultimately culled for poor reproductive performance. The BVD virus cannot survive for very long in the environment without animal hosts—literature suggests up to one week only. For this reason once infected animals leave a property that property should be clear of BVD and pose little or no risk to incoming stock after one week. In New Zealand as much as 75% of all cattle will probably have antibodies to BVD suggesting they have been exposed to the virus after birth. But only about 1% of the cattle population is carrying the virus. The trick is to find this 1% and cull them.
In beef herds, diagnosis, control and eradication is possible and is done by blood testing, isolation and culling. Eradication programmes are very successful. On dairy farms the BVD virus can be very infectious and can circulate between animals on such things as gumboots and motorbikes. Dirty needles are often the cause of spread of infection between animals. Saliva is also a major cause of spread. Bulls can become infected with the BVD virus, and infections can lead to reduced fertility which, if it occurs at mating time, can have a big negative impact. The best approach to BVD is to know your enemy by doing some basic testing and monitoring. Your Vet will be happy to assist in planning a control programme. Thankfully we now have a very good selection of BVD vaccines to choose from. Vaccination, to achieve herd immunity, is a very sound way to protect vulnerable animals, including unborn foetuses. Your Vet should be the first point of contact for information about BVD, and will be happy to help you.
Riverside Vets are ATS Suppliers allowing members to charge their membership to their ATS Card. Contact:
Riverside Veterinary Services Ltd Tel: 03 308 2321
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We meet your on-farm maintenance needs Specialising in: • Spray painting and panelbeating • Rust repairs • Insurance work • Fibreglass repairs
• Light engineering • Fleet painting • Painting of cars, caravans, trucks, tractors, motorhomes, heavy and light machinery, horse floats and more.
bus&truck limited 17 Range Street, Ashburton Phone: 307 0378 Mobile: 0274 274 007 busandtruckbodywork@xtra.co.nz 28
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s d i K S T A
Feb/Mar 2011
Welcome to the ATS Kidsbutpawegewan. t to see what adventures you did Holidays are over and it’s back to school mer Photo Competition on the next page. over the Christmas break by entering the Sum
Make a Kite
STEP 1&2
You will need:
String Cellotape or glue 1 sheet of strong paper (102cm x 102cm) 2 strong, straight wooden sticks of bamboo Markers, paint or crayons to decorate 1. Make a cross with the two sticks, with a shorter stick placed horizontally across the longer stick. Ensure that both sides of the cross piece is equal in width. 2. Tie the sticks together with the string and make sure they are at right angles to each other. To make the joint strong, put a dab of glue to stick it in place. 3. Cut a notch at each end of both sticks deeper enough for the string to fit in to. Cut a piece of string long enough to stretch around the kite frame. Make a loop in the top notch and fasten it by wrapping the string around the stick. Stretch the string through the notch at one end of the cross-piece, and make another loop at the bottom. Finish by wrapping the string a few times around the stick and cutting off the string you don’t need.
STEP 5&6 STEP 3 4. Lay the sail material flat and place the frame face down on top. Cut around the frame, leaving 2–3cm for a margin. Fold these edges over the string frame and tape or glue it down so the material is tight. 5. Cut a piece of string about 1.2m long and tie one to the loop at the other end of the string to the loop at the bottom. Tie another small loop in the string just above the intersection of the two cross pieces (this is the loop that the flying line will be attached to). 6. Make a tail by tying a small ribbon every 10cm along the length of the string. Attach the tail to the loop at the bottom of the kite. 7. Now decorate!
Kite Safety Never fly a kite… • near electric fences or power lines • in rain or when it is stormy as the line can carry electricity • using metal parts or lines which will attract electricity • using fishing line or wire • near steep hills or slopes • near roads
Photo Project: Friends Mobile You will need:
6 pictures of your friends Stiff poster board Coloured poster board Thin string or fishing line Hole punch Paperclips Scissors
5. 1. Print pictures of your friends. 2. Cut the stiff poster board into 5 different lengths with a width of 2cm for the arms of the mobile— 1 x 22cm (main support), 2 x 20cm (2nd level support) and 2 x 15cm (3rd level support). 3. Cut the pictures to the shape and 6. size you want. 4. Glue the coloured paper on the back of each picture. Once the glue is dry, cut the pictures in fun 7. shapes.
Punch a hole in the top of each picture and the ends of each mobile arm. Hang pictures on thin string by knotting the string on the arm holes and tying the end through each picture. Let each picture fall about 7 to 13cm so they “hang”. If one side of your mobile is too heavy, weigh the opposite side of the arm with paper clips or choose another bigger picture until it balances. Now, hang your mobile from the ceiling for all to see! ATS NE WS
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SUMMER PHOTO C O M P E T IT IO N
about and write a creative caption taken on your summer holiday tion sec ily fam the or ) f rsel Choose your favourite photo you age section (shot taken by of rs yea 14 er und the er it. Enter in eith holiday adventures). a photo taken of you in your (shot of you and the family or ide it. ow and write your caption bes Attach photo in the area bel
win one of two lued at va ’s 95 4 A t ho S er w Po on Can xpress! $169 from Kingans Kodak E
could Send your entry in and you
Tips for taking great photos: • Get down on their level • Use a plain background • Try locking the focus • Move in close • Take some vertical pictures • Know your flash’s range
Caption:
Name:
Send your entry to:
Age: Phone No:
Address:
ATS Photo Competition PO BOX 131 Ashburton 7740 Or deliver to ATS Ashburton, 97 Burnett Street, Ashburton
ATS No:
Section: Tick box
Under 14 Family 30
ATS NE WS
Conditions of entry: All entrants must be ATS members or children of ATS members. There are two sections: under 14 years of age section and the family section. Please ensure the family ATS number, age, name, address of the entrant and section entered is submitted with the entry. All entries must be received by ATS no later than 5pm, 1st March 2011. Finalist photos and captions will be displayed in the ATS Ashburton Customer Lounge during February, winners will be announced on the 8th March 2011. One entry per child only. ATS reserves the right to publish all entries and details of the winners. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Once the judging has taken place, winners will be notified by telephone. The winner of each section that meets the criteria will win a Canon PowerShot A495 camera valued at $169. There are two prizes to be won, one prize for each section. The prize is not transferable or exchangeable and ATS reserves the right to change the prize to the same or equal value at any time if the prize becomes unavailable. No responsibility accepted for late, lost or misdirected entries.
Selenium—are they getting enough?
Selenium one for the faint hearted? Selenium one of the little things in life that can make a big difference. By Dr Rob Derrick, Winslow Feeds Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element which is overly feared by some and used too freely by others. Early interest in selenium was driven by the danger of toxicity rather than deficiency—with areas of the Great Plains in the USA having soils with high selenium levels and plants in Australia known to accumulate selenium to levels which become toxic. Selenium deficiency is more commonly the problem in New Zealand where cases of toxicity are normally associated with human error e.g. when selenium destined for the dosatron is wrongly added to calf milk. Being of a cautious nature I am pleased that even with dedicated equipment and staff at Winslow we only buy selenium as part of a premix, already mixed with other trace elements to reduce the risk of overdosing. Selenium works very closely with vitamin E as a powerful antioxidant which is why we always include both in our mineralised pelleted feed and molassed mineral blocks. Oxidation is the process by which fats, carbohydrates and proteins are converted to carbon dioxide, water and energy which supports life. Anti-oxidants prevent the formation of, or detoxify, dangerous oxidising compounds like peroxides which are produced during the oxidation process. In particular, selenium plays a crucial role in an enzyme which detoxifies peroxides whilst vitamin E reduces the production of peroxides. Horses that are working hard produce more oxidising material and consequently have a higher anti-oxidant requirement. The demand for selenium and vitamin E is increased in the presence of high levels of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids – as found in grass—so hard working dairy cows need their share of anti-oxidants too. Selenium helps the immune system and may improve the mammary glands’ defence mechanism, reducing the prevalence and severity of mastitis. Although selenium and vitamin E are interchangeable, one cannot completely replace the other. Selenium deficiency affects muscle development which is seen in calves and lambs as white muscle disease (pale, weak muscles) and in extreme cases heart failure. Marginal or short term deficiencies of selenium have been linked to poor growth, general ill thrift and diarrhoea. In cows, selenium deficiency is linked to poor conception rates and retained cleansings.
The selenium content of herbage depends on the selenium content of the soil in which the crop is grown. Selenium can be added to fertiliser to boost herbage levels or injected. It can be added to the diet as sodium selenate or sodium selenite and in an organic form as part of protein fragments. Not surprisingly, as a trace element, selenium is only required in tiny amounts. Milking cows producing 30 litres milk per day would be expected to require 4mg selenium per day. When supplementing diets it is important to know what is being delivered in the basal diet. A cow would be unable to eat 40kg DM of grass containing 0.1 mg/kg DM selenium to meet her selenium requirements, but cows eating 5 to 6kg per day of palm kernel expeller with 0.8mg/kg DM may not need any additional selenium. Some countries limit selenium supplementation to around 0.3mg per kg dry matter eaten so I am concerned when occasionally I meet farmers feeding 12mg/day selenium or more. A calf requiring 0.3mg selenium per day would have to drink 15 litres milk containing 0.02mg selenium/kg which is partly why NuStart Milk Additive added to milk from day 1 can be so beneficial. Typical Analysis
Magnesium
5%
Iodine
10mg/kg
Phosphorus
3%
Iron
400mg/kg
Calcium
6%
Vitamin A
100,000 IU/kg
Sodium
9%
Vitamin D3
10,000 IU/kg
Sugars (As sucrose)
16%
Vitamin E
1,000 IU/kg
Copper
400mg/kg
Vitamin B1
40 IU/kg
Selenium—total (Selplex seleno yeast)
3mg/kg (1.5mg/kg)
Vitamin B2
40 IU/kg
Manganese
200mg/kg
Vitamin B6
40 IU/kg
Cobalt
10mg/kg
Zinc
850mg/kg
Biotin, Niacin, Choline, Folic Acid, Vitamin C and Pantothenic Acid
The range of Winslow Feeds and nutritonal products are available through ATS.
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PRODUCTS AVAILABLE THROUGH ALL ATS STORES
Keep your cows productive
Purchase 3 x 20Lt or 3 x 100Lt G Force Max and receive
Order your magnesium today
one free!
We have magnesium chloride natural prill (Dosatron approved) 25kg and magnesium oxide (dusting) 25kg at competitive prices
G FORCE MAX High strength Glyphosate
Call 0800 BUY ATS (289 287) or 307 5100 and get it delivered FREE* on farm
AC1188 / AC1189
* Terms and conditions apply, see www.ats.co.nz for details
Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997 No P7074
Offer valid until 1 April 2011. Purchase must be three of the same size, receiving an identical free.
N AVAI OW L ABL E AT AT S
Call in today to get all your preserving needs Labels Utensils
Pans And moreâ&#x20AC;Ś
0800 BUY ATS / 0800 289 287 Ashburton / Methven / Rakaia
www.ats.co.nz
PRODUCTS AVAILABLE THROUGH ALL ATS STORES
Jars Lids
News at ATS Familiar face in new role Peter Ayers has recently joined the Meridian team as the ATS Partnership Manager. Peter is already familiar to many locally through his family connections and his previous roles. He grew up on a mixed sheep/arable farm near Methven and worked in the dairy industry for four years prior to doing a BCom Ag degree (majoring in farm management) at Lincoln University. After Lincoln he worked for Ballance Agri-Nutrients as a Technical Sales Representative in Otago for four and a half years before moving up to Mid Canterbury where he was a TSR for a further three and a half years prior to the move to Meridian. Peter says he’s looking forward to the new exciting challenges of being the ATS Partnership Manager and also to getting out on farm with customers and advising them on how to use electricity efficiently and economically. Peter Ayres, ATS Partnership Manager
Customer Service Centre Providing ATS members with even better service is the aim of the newly revamped ATS Customer Service Centre. The Customer Service Centre team has responsibility for retail sales, Meridian Electricity and fuel enquiries, Ballance fertiliser orders, bulk purchasing requirements and Membership Services—in fact just about all aspects of ATS’s business (excluding administration and account queries). It can also arrange free delivery for retail purchases via ATS’s free delivery service which operates between Culverden and Oamaru. Formerly known as the ATS Call Centre, the Customer Service Centre team, led by Nicky Hogg can assist members with all product, purchasing and order placement enquiries. The team is able to solve almost all members’ queries straight away, meaning members only need to deal with one person. The team has a wealth of knowledge and experience and a combined work history with ATS of more than 40 years—Nicky has been with ATS for 11 years, Christine Taylor almost 10, Lorayne Johnson for 5 years, and Michael Broadfoot has been with ATS for more than 20 years. Receptionist, Julian Kershaw completes the team and has been with ATS for 18 years. A change of location has also formed part of the Customer Service Centre’s recent upgrade, with the team outgrowing its former home in the back shop. The team is now based in the original administration area behind reception.
South Island Field Days The South Island Field Days will be held at Lincoln from 30 March–1 April, 2011. This will be the 60th anniversary of the South Islands largest field days. ATS will be displaying at the field days along with selected ATS Suppliers and we look forward to seeing you there.
ATS Supports United Wheat Growers 2011 Wheat Competition The popular United Wheat Growers annual Wheat Competition has been introduced for the 2011 season, with support from ATS. Crops harvested in 2011 are eligible for entry, with judging taking place in Autumn 2011, and presentations and prize giving taking place shortly after. Entries are invited across three classes of wheat, from growers across New Zealand. If you are growing wheat and would like to enter please contact Nikki Craig on 03 307 5109 or nikki.craig@ats.co.nz.
From Back left: Christine Taylor (Membership Services), Nicky Hogg (Customer Service/Logistics Manager), Lorayne Johnson. From front left: Michael Broadfoot, Julian Kershaw (Reception)
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ATS NE WS
ATS Sponsorship At ATS we see ourselves as very much a part of local rural communities and in turn enjoy giving support back to the community. This support often takes the form of sponsorship, and as is to be expected we receive many requests from a variety of community organisations, including charitable and sporting. Our policy is to support the farming community in which ATS operates and carries out its business. Over the past few months ATS has supported a range of activities in a variety of ways including: • ATS Longbeach Coastal Challenge Ride ATS supported this successful community fundraiser event that raised over $12,000. • Hororata Community Fundraiser Supported raffle to raise funds for earthquake repairs to community hall and church. • Child Cancer—Ashburton Provided supplies for Christmas BBQ • St John—Methven Donated prizes for fundraiser for a defibrillator for the local ambulance.
Longbeach Race
If your community group is interested in sponsorship, please fill in a Sponsorship Application form. This can be picked up from any of the ATS branches or downloaded off the website (www.ats.co.nz). Elizabeth Bell on Double Bass, fourth in the Ashburton Toyota Young Rider Series Class, which was supported by ATS
ATS Team at the Women’s Golf Tournament: Jenny Senior (left), Tania Wilson and Pam Watson
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News at ATS
ATS out and about Above: Stuart Wilson and Christine Taylor at Christmas with ATS
Left: Graeme Fulton serving dinner for members at Christmas with ATS
Right: The ATS team at the Womens Ashburton Golf Tournament
Above: Winner of the Christmas with ATS $1000 travel voucher Bruce Lambie and Kay Haines from House of Travel and Neal Shaw
Above: Front shop on the night of Christmas with ATS
Left: Santa giving treats to the children at Christmas with ATS
Above: A team getting into the Christmas spirit at the Women’s Golf Tournament
Left: Winslow team entered in the ATS Longbeach MTB Coastal Challenge
Left: Alan Neumann presenting Craig Hansen a $600 tyre voucher he won at the Neumanns ATS open night.
Right: Children’s entertainment at Christmas with ATS
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ATS NE WS
C LA S S I F I E D S FOR SALE FOR SALE
2 x Roxell Feed Silos 10 ton & 5 ton with coreless auger in good order Tel 03 696 3577 (evenings)
Kidz Korner If it’s a strong sand-pit toy you’re after or farm related toys and animals then you need to call in! For baby presents see our Baby room at the rear of the shop for a treasure trove of delightful gift ideas.
Calf Bedding Woodchip calf bedding. Quantities on hand. Samples are available per request. Tel 03 303 6205 or 027 485 6206 Or 0800 CALF BED
Blackout Generator 230V 50Hz 6KW (Max 6.5KW) Electric start 7hp. DC 12 V socket @ 8.3 Amps also twin power sockets. On castors $1,500 ono Tel Steven : 03 307 0699
WILTSHIRE Purebred Ram Lambs Ideal easy care sheep. No shearing or crutching or dagging. Resistant to worms and flystrike. $350 plus GST Tel 03 3036235 or 027 3805075
Reminder Items for sale can be advertised in the ATS News and on our website free of charge. If you wish to list any items please contact Nikki Craig on 03 307 5109 or nikki.craig@ats.co.nz
Dance shoes are on sale and include Jazz, Ballet and Highland. East Street, Ashburton Tel 03 307 0456
Frizzell Ltd Electronic farm scales from $780.00; Well depth meters from $285.00, weather stations from $149.00, Irrigation monitoring equipment from $195.00, Farm weigh bridges from $3800.00 (all prices plus G.S.T.). If it’s Farm electronics contact Frizzell Agricultural Electronics for the best price. We also have a wide range of crates and platforms for scales, plus irrigation monitoring and farm security systems. For free information on our wide range of products contact Alastair Frizzell on 03 318 133, or your local contact Viv McLachlan on 03 302 7065 or 027 506 6434. www.frizzell.co.nz or sales@frizzell.co.nz.
RETAIL
Tux $49 for 20kg packs, and $89 for 40kg packs.
WANTED Grazing wanted for 200-400 lambs Preferably between the Ashburton and Rakaia rivers. Enquires please call Jeff on 021494325. (Posted 03/12/10)
G Force Max Now available through ATS. Purchase 3 x 20L or 3 x 100L and receive one free.
Bus Shelter For four children. Tel Geoff: 03 302 3723 (Posted 19/10/2010)
Reminder Advertisements for wanted items can be published in the ATS News and on our website free of charge. If you wish to list any items please contact Nikki Craig on 03 307 5109 or nikki.craig@ats.co.nz
Advertising Enquiries Please contact the Marketing Department on: Tel: 03 307 5100 Email: info@ats.co.nz www.ats.co.nz