Canterbury Farming, March 2018

30,287 copies distributed monthly – to every rural mailbox in Canterbury and the West Coast

March 2018 Edition

INSIDE Stars to shine THIS EDITION

at AgFest

Demand for feed

p3 Field days

p13 Agri spraying

p18 Rare breeds

p37

award winning country and Western singer Jody Direen, pictured here performing at the Ellesemere a&P Spring Show, will be one of the highlights of the upcoming West coast Farmlands agFest.

For the first time Greymouth will host the bi-annual field day event with over 400 exhibitors attracting up to 15,000 people through the gates over the two days.

The event and accompanying trade show, which this year is being held on 13 and 14 april, has been growing rapidly in size and is now one of the biggest events of its kind to be held on the West coast.

For more on the event see Page 11.

Photo: Kent caddick

Farming your way out of Chilean Needle grass â?š by annette Litherland

Tim Struthers is winning the war against Chilean Needle grass and improving his profit at his Blind River farm in Marlborough.

On the clay based Blind River hill country, where Chilean Needle grass (CNG) used to reach waist height, Struthers now has an economic cattle finishing operation, and a farm with improved pastures, that has increased markedly in capital value.

Struthers farms 35ha of vineyard and 180ha of grazing clay based hill country in

the core CNG area. The farm was heavily infested with CNG around five years ago when he purchased it.

Struthers has used a two year cropping system followed by regrassing to turn these pastures into highly productive farmland with minimal numbers of CNG plants.

He has been working through his property developing it block by block. Firstly he subdivides the paddocks into approximately 4ha paddocks and sets up a stock watering system. He then gets a soil test and depending on the test result applies a capital dressing

of usually 2.5 tonne/ha of lime and 250 kg/ ha of sulphur super.

Fertiliser is then applied each year in the development phase until the Olsen P reaches 20 after which maintenance fertiliser is applied.

Struthers identifies a CNG paddock and grazes it to reduce the pasture cover and then he boom sprays it in October/early November with 3L/ha of Taskforce (this is supplied free by the council) and 4L/ha of 470 Roundup.

TO PAGE 2

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March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

Cocksfoot found to outcompete CNG FROM PAGE 1

can direct disc drill for late autumn and winter feed.

There are two permanent pasture mixes that are sown depending on the aspect of the block. Northern facing blocks are sown in early October with a Lucerne plaintain cocksfoot mix. For southern facing blocks a Cocksfoot plaintain clover mix is sown. These will provide quality bulk feed over the whole season.

Blocks going into the Cocksfoot mix are summer fallowed again and direct drilled in early Autumn.

Struthers has found that the cocksfoot, as well as providing bulk feed in winter, outcompetes CNG and lucerne and plantain are also resilient to the residual activity of Taskforce spray.

This year he is also trying prairie grass in the mix.

Occasionally an isolated CNG plant is found but it is easily controlled by spot spraying. Struthers can spot CNG, even in its vegetative state, at a distance, while driving along in his ute.

While developing his farm, Struthers works at getting a good balance of drought tolerant pastures based on lucerne for the summer and permanent pasture, and rape or barley pastures for winter.

Rural & Urban Subdivisions Mapping/Survey Graphics Cocksfoot based pasture Cross Lease/Unit Surveys Land Status Research Resource Consents Legalisation Surveys outcompetes CNG, is persisTopo/Site Surveys GPS Technology tent and also gives good cattle production, especially the Registered Professional Surveyors newer more palatable cocksLicensed Cadastral Surveyors foot cultivars like Saffin. NiCall (03) 377 2721 or 0800 NZSURVEY (697 878) trogen needed to support Email: info@koa.co.nz cocksfoot palatability comes 480C Moorhouse Avenue, Waltham, Christchurch. from the lucerne and clovers.

These sward mixes work well with Struthers’ cattle finishing policy. Given the workload with sheep and

Taskforce will continue to kill CNG and other low fertility grasses for up to four years which reduces the competition for the high quality legumes and plantain that are sown.

He manages to spray most of the steeper slopes in the paddock with a 200m hose off the tractor, leaving the really steep, bare northerly slopes unsprayed with Taskforce at this point, not wanting to open these up and risking erosion problems later.

The glyphosphate kills all vegetation on the paddock and it is then left to summer fallow to build up soil moisture for autumn sowing, while also adhering to Task Force’s three month with-holding period.

Later in the summer he may then spray the steep northerly slopes with Roundup and oversow with cocksfoot, plantain and sometimes sub clover if it is not present already.

At the same time the previously sprayed taskforce+glyphosphate parts of the paddock are now bare and he gets a contractor to drill with either rape or barley with a Dun-

LAND SURVEYORS

Plant pest: chilean Needle Grass is a nationwide problem, with approximately 15 million hectares of land across New Zealand providing a suitable habitat for its growth. the need to remove sheep from CNG infected paddocks from October to March, he has opted to finish cattle, though he has recently purchased some lambs to finish on the lucerne based swards which should complement the winter grazing in the vineyard.

He has also had success with the dairy grazers, which provided him with a good steady cashflow and he even used them to tread in seed after hand oversowing steep slopes and also grazed them in the vineyard.

Struthers purchases young bull calves at 100kg LW in November and grows them at just over a 1kg/day and sells them in excess of 620kg LW at 16 to 18 months before December the following year.

That’s a level of production which would

not be possible on the CNG pastures, in fact Struthers believes he has increased the production from his grazeable land five-fold.

As part of the earthquake recovery project, more data will be collected to compare production and economics of CNG pastures with the improved pastures on Struthers’ farm and other properties. canterbury Farming would like to acknowledge the assistance of the chilean Needle Grass action Group for the publication of this article. For more information and advice go to: www.facebook.com/ chileanneedlegrass. The author, annette Litherland is the Nelson/Marlborough regional coordinator for NZ Landcare Trust.

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

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Feed demand driven by weather Extreme weather conditions over the past few months have been challenging for farmers across the country, leading to an unprecedented demand for feed.

❚ by Kent caddick A very wet winter and spring last year evolved into an extremely warm, dry November and December, with drought conditions declared in several regions of New Zealand – causing anxiety for the farming community.

Just before Christmas the Government declared a drought in parts of the North Island, including Taranaki, Wellington and Manawatu-Whanganui, then later drought was declared in the Grey and Buller districts on the West Coast.

At the end of January the Ministry for Agriculture and Rural Communities announced the medium-scale adverse classification for the drought would be extended to the whole of Southland, Otago’s Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and Clutha districts.

In January and through February, wet warm weather hit – with sub-tropical storms causing havoc in some areas of the country.

Although the rain has been welcomed by the rural community, it hasn’t mitigated the impacts of the early hot, dry summer in many areas.

Minster for Agriculture and Rural Communities Damien O’Conner recently said farmers have not been able to grow sufficient feed for winter, and have been using stored feed and buying supplements for stock, as well as selling off animals.

New Zealand-based national feeds company GrainCorp Feeds has been busy helping farmers fill feed deficits by providing a range of supplementary feed options.

“Due to significant climatic and seasonal challenges on farms across New Zealand we have seen demand for all feeds increase over recent months, from low cost feeds such as PKE (palm kernel extract) to high-

Unprecedented: Graincorp Feeds general manager Daniel calcinai says they have experienced a high demand for all their feeds following a dry summer.

er value grain-based feeds,” GrainCorp Feeds general manager Daniel Calcinai said.

“Climatic events provide huge challenges to farmers across their entire farming operation, but particularly when it comes to feed.”

Calcinai said high temperatures have been hard on cows in some regions.

“The cows struggled with heat stress, which impacted feed intake and production levels. After Taranaki was declared a drought region prior to Christmas, we found that feed demand increased significantly there to keep cows milking.”

Calcinai said that sessions run by the Taranaki Rural Support Trust on how farmers

can efficiently utilise bought-in supplements to get through until pasture growth improves were beneficial.

“What we all want is to minimise the chances of the worst-affected farms having to dry off early.”

Last month GrainCorp Feeds announced it was offering molasses through its national supply chain, and the feedback has been positive.

“We have seen an increase in demand for molasses due to the many nutritional benefits if offers during summer condi-

tions,” Calcinai said.

“In particular, interest in our range of PKE/ Molasses blends has been high and from what we have seen, these blended feeds can help reduce FEI (fat evaluation index) results very quickly and cost effectively.”

Calcinai said the recent rains in some areas will be making a positive difference to grass for farmers.

“There is spring-like pasture growth in some areas, although the sugar content and energy levels of the pasture have fallen away somewhat.”

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March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

Groundwork done, the real job begins We’ve passed our 100-day mark of being in government and while there was a huge amount of work done in that time, the 100-day plan was just the beginning.

Damien O’connor ❚ by for Agriculture, Biosecurity, ❚ Minister Food Safety and Rural Communities ❚ It was important to begin with restoring public services that keep us connected and strong, and to build a sustainable and growing economy that works for everyone.

For rural communities that meant legislation to prevent our farms being sold to overseas buyers, the introduction of a Manuka honey standard after years of mucking around, and a reorganised Ministry for Primary Industries to pull the focus back to core tasks of biosecurity, fisheries and forestry.

In the dairy industry in particular the passage of DIRA legislation and our upcoming review means there is a big chance for the sector to think about change: what it needs to turn the corner from volume to value while treading lightly in the environment.

We also passed a law to boost Working for Families and raised the minimum wage.

Talking to farming families around the country over the past couple of months I’ve been impressed by their ideas for the future and keenness to improve farming operations. This kind of forward-thinking is especially impressive as rural communities, especially in the South Island, face tough challenges including the drought and Mycoplasma bovis outbreak.

I want to thank you for your perseverance and for working together with the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Rural Support Trusts and others on the ground.

We know we are up against a hard deadline and we are ramping up efforts to get to the bottom of the extent of the spread of Mycoplasma bovis and then hopefully pursue a plan of eradication.

A beginning: after years of mucking around the Government has introduced a Manuka honey standard within its 100-day plan.

Our challenge in an increasingly interconnected world is to better protect ourselves from biosecurity threats to New Zealand.

There are things we will do – review the Biosecurity Act for example and look at import controls. There are things industry leader groups can do by providing vital information via extension services.

And there are things you can do to practice your own on-farm biosecurity and keep your NAIT records up to date.

The Mycoplasma bovis outbreak has

shown us that where farmers have complied with NAIT requirements, the tracing of animals has been quick and accurate, whereas those who haven’t complied have made this a lot more difficult.

A review of NAIT will be out for public consultation in the next month and I’d strongly encourage you to get involved.

Our first 100 days have laid the groundwork, but it’s in the next 1,000 days that we can give everyone a great opportunity to build a better, fairer New Zealand.

4m+

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Our challenge in an increasingly interconnected world is to better protect ourselves from biosecurity threats to New Zealand.

Damien O’Connor Minister for Agriculture

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

5

M. bovis outbreak highlights biosecurity The recent outbreak of Mycoplasma bovis has underscored the importance of on-farm biosecurity. supplied by ❚ Article ❚ Beef+Lamb New Zealand Regardless of M. bovis, on-farm biosecurity measures and NAIT movement recording are the ways to protect your farm and others from pests and diseases in New Zealand, including M. bovis.

To let us know where we’re at, industry and MPI experts reviewed the global literature on M. bovis in light of the country’s farming systems and predict that the impacts on beef production, were the disease to become established, will be minimal.

As we learn more about the disease in New Zealand, there will be an opportunity to reassess the situation.

However, our current understanding of the impacts observed during the outbreak gives us no reason to believe that this assessment needs to be changed.

The main impacts that sheep and beef farmers are likely to experience from M. bovis stem from uncertainty about risks associated with stock movements, specifically in respect to grazing contracts and bull leasing.

Farmers in areas known to have infected properties are unfortunately experiencing a reluctance from some buyers to purchase their animals.

Regardless of where you are in the country, we highly recommend that you should be reviewing your biosecurity farm management practices and ensuring your NAIT records are complete and accurate.

MPI are not doing any media releases on new cases in existing areas but will provide a press release if there are any new cases found in a new area.

We recommend you keep an eye on MPI’s

Protecting your farm: Beef+Lamb New Zealand recommend reviewing biosecurity farm management practices and ensuring NaIT records are complete and accurate.

situation report on their website.

From the outset, B+LNZ has been working closely with MPI, DairyNZ and other industry partners in a coordinated response and will continue to do so.

We strongly encourage farmers to attend any MPI or industry led M. bovis meetings in their region.

We are developing further resources and would welcome feedback on what farmers feel they need at this time.

Mycoplasma bovis: an overview • Mycoplasma bovis is a bacterial disease • is commonly found in cattle all over the world, including in Australia, but this is the first detection of it in New Zealand. We were one of the last countries free of the disease - until now • it does not infect humans and presents no food safety risk. There is no

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concern about eating meat, milk and milk products M. bovis is particularly difficult to detect, owing to the poor sensitivity of diagnostic tests, and the fact that many cattle which become infected will never show visible signs of disease, however, under the right conditions, it can lead to serious conditions in cattle and therefore constitutes an animal welfare and productivity issue it spreads from animal to animal through close contact. Between farms it spreads through the movement of animals that are infected but not showing symptoms. It is also potentially spread on contaminated equipment and the feeding of untreated milk to calves. It is not windborne while some of the conditions can be treated, affected cattle will always be carriers of the disease the disease does not affect sheep or

cause illness in goats, although it is thought goats could carry and transmit it.

How it affects cows: • untreatable mastitis • severe pneumonia in up to 30% of infected calves, starting as a hacking cough • ear infections in calves, the first sign typically being one droopy ear, progressing to ear discharges and in some cases a head tilt • abortions • swollen joints and lameness (severe arthritis/synovitis) in all ages of cattle If you see anything unusual or concerning in your animals, call your vet.

If you have any questions, contact your local farm extension team or email Beef+Lamb New Zealand at enquiries@beeflambnz.com.

6

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

The talk of Fieldays

Nathan Guy ❚ by Party spokesperson ❚ National ❚ Primary Industries

Mycoplasma Bovis was on every farmer’s lips when I visited the Southern Field Days last week.

It continues to be identified around the country which is a real worry. There are 23 properties infected, 38 are restricted and a whopping 1500 are considered ‘trace’ properties.

M. Bovis causes a range of diseases in cows including mastitis that doesn’t respond to treatment, arthritis, pneumonia and late term abortion which impacts on overall cattle farm productivity.

The spread of the disease has really driven home the importance of keeping accurate records of stock movement.

NAIT technology provides traceability for individual animals, and when used properly could greatly enhance New Zealand’s ability to respond quickly if there is a biosecurity emergency such as a disease outbreak.

Unfortunately the Government’s response

to eradicating the disease has been wishy washy and lacks detail. They give hope of eradication, yet are vague on how it will be achieved Culling stock has been put on hold (apart from animal welfare cases) to try and avoid a big compensation bill.

The Government knows to achieve eradication it will take well over $100m and contributions are now being sought from industry to help part fund it.

Cabinet will soon be asked to sign off a special financial request.

If it chooses not to fund full eradication then it will be obvious to all that fees free tertiary funding is more important than supporting our rural communities get on top of this cattle disease.

The clock is ticking.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

New national sales manager for seed co Corson Maize Seed, a leading provider of premium maize hybrids for both silage and grain production, has confirmed the appointment of Graeme Austin to the role of national sales manager.

Austin has had a successful career in a number of roles in the primary sector and for the past eighteen months has been working with AgFirst Waikato as an agribusiness consultant.

He has over 20 years involvement in the New Zealand maize industry and prior to working with AgFirst held Sales Management and Forage Specialist roles with Pioneer seeds.

David Green, New Zealand General Manager for Corson Maize Seed parent PGG Wrightson Seeds, said they were delighted to welcome Graeme to its growing team.

“He brings a wealth of industry knowledge, sales management skill and experience to the role,” Green said.

“Graeme has an outstanding track record in building relationships and delivering what rural customers want.

We are looking forward to his help in taking our high performing maize hybrids to the market.”

Austin said he was looking forward to being a part of the Corson Maize Seed business.

“Having the opportunity to deliver a broad range of maize genetics, backed up by a team of breeders, agronomists, veterinarians and nutritionists, is something I am really looking forward to,” Austin said.

“Maize continues to be an important feed and forage crop at the forefront of environmental and economic sustainability for farmers.

“It is an incredible product that will continue to make a large contribution to New Zealand, and that’s an exciting place to be.”

The strength and value of the New Zealand primary sector is indisputable with industry exports projected to exceed $41.4 billion by mid-2018.

The recent Ministry for Primary Industries report, ‘Situation & Outlook for Primary Industries’, predicts continued growth through to 2019.

Federated Farmers National President Katie Milne says the report certainly makes for good reading.

“As a farmer you also want to see it reflected in genuine returns at the farm gate, where you can make a sustainable profit too,” Milne says.

“We’ve had a challenging spring in terms of growing crops and pasture and now the pendulum has swung to extreme dry in some areas and this may unfortunately impact on some of those longer term predictions.

“No one can really foretell what 2018 will bring, but farmers have had enough disruption lately to not get too

far ahead of themselves.”

Annual dairy exports were forecast to increase by 15% to $16.8 billion, with meat and wool projections also on an upward trend, by 4.2% at $8.7 billion for the year to June 2018.

The Arable industry was also in good shape with seed exports forecast to rise 12% to $220 million.

Adding to the good vibe is Agriculture Minister Damien O’ Connor, who has pledged to grow primary sector capability through further support and investment towards the Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF).

The Minister believes there are genuine opportunities for producers to become more profitable and move up the value chain to suit a growing discerning consumer base.

A former recipient of the Fund for an environmental project, Katie Milne says the primary sector is in an enviable position and should be ready to capitalise.

Positive outlook: Federated Farmers National President Katie Milne says the latest MPI outlook report makes for good reading.

“The SFF is a great initiative and suitably allows for the small and big projects to get funding. This has huge incentives for farmers and growers who generally lead these research projects and are trialing in the field.

“We are globally renowned for being a quality food producer that is safe and reliable. The challenge for producers is to maximise that hard-earned reputation and get the market returns they deserve,” Milne says.

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March 2018

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March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

RURAL PROFESSIONALS

Investment markets update ❚ with andrew Wyllie ❚ Forsyth Barr

Developed market momentum Resumption of synchronised global growth was the economic story of 2017, with the momentum being led by the major developed markets.

China’s growth rate is now starting to slow, but is still forecast to be in excess of 6%. The size of China’s economy means that its contribution to global economic growth remains significant.

The United States economy should continue to provide support for global economic growth, with recent legislation lowering United States corporate taxes likely to reinforce and strengthen domestic activity.

In Europe, Germany is leading the growth surge, with population growth driving capex and consumption. Housing-related expenditure has kicked up a gear and this growth is spreading to the wider Euro area, via manufacturing and trade.

As a consequence, Central Banks are expected to move away from ultra-easy monetary policies this year, but borrowing costs are still expected to remain sufficiently ac-

commodative to underpin growth.

Overall, in 2018, economists predict the global economy to grow at the fastest rate since 2010. The International Monetary Fund is at the upper end of forecasts, predicting global growth to approach +3.9% this year.

Equity markets benefited from improved earnings backdrop Equity markets were particularly strong in 2017 and were largely supported by improved earnings outlooks.

Returns for the last quarter and year have also been broad-based, with returns across most sectors averaging +20% in New Zealand dollar terms.

Technology was the best performing sector, although Resource sectors staged a strong recovery in the last three months.

This followed improved confidence in the global economy and renewed interest in minerals required to support forecast increases in the use of batteries, (eg Lithium and Cobalt). Defensive sectors tended to be the sector laggards.

Global growth should remain supportive of earnings, however with share prices already anticipating higher earnings, positive earnings surprises may be needed to prompt

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the next stage of market growth.

This is likely to add to short-term market volatility and has meant that recent equity market returns have been mixed, particularly in the case of the New Zealand equity market, given its lower forecast growth compared to other developed markets.

Global interest rates up but short rates on hold in New Zealand New Zealand inflation failed to materialise in December, with annual inflation actually declining from the previous period.

This has resulted in economists revising their inflation expectations lower and pushing out the timing for any expected increase in the Official Cash Rate until 2019.

This lack of movement contrasts with other Central Banks where the United States Federal Reserve, United Kingdom, Canada and others are gradually tightening monetary policy and raising short-term interest rates. Combined with the removal of asset purchases and higher short-term rates, United States 10 year bonds are at levels not seen since 2014.

Given New Zealand long-term bonds tend to follow global bond rates, we believe that as a result of New Zealand short-term rates remaining flat, a steeper yield curve will emerge.

The lower differential in short-term rates compared to United States rates is also ex-

pected to reduce the attractiveness of Australasian currencies and potentially allow some weakening in both the New Zealand and Australian dollars.

If you’re new to investing please see Forsyth Barr’s Introduction to Investing guide available at www.forsythbarr.co.nz/investing-with-us/ new-to-investing or to discuss your investment options please contact andrew Wyllie, an authorised Financial adviser with Forsyth Barr in christchurch. he can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz.

This column is general in nature and should not be regarded as personalised investment advice. report covers the three months ended November 30.

Disclosure Statements are available for Forsyth Barr authorised Financial advisers on request and free of charge.

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RURAL PROFESSIONALS

Bessie Paterson LLB ❚ with ❚ Ronald W Angland & Son

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

Solving disputes through out-of-court mediation

Mediation has become a useful process in alternative dispute resolution.

It is used to try to settle disputes satisfactorily which would otherwise involve court proceedings especially in family, employment, construction and civil law disputes.

One of the essentials in contemplating mediation is to consider referring the matter to mediation in the early stages of the dispute.

Mediators who will run the mediation are independent and impartial between the parties to the dispute.

They need to have extensive experience in the subject matter of the dispute and have undertaken suitable training to hone their mediation skills.

The parties to the dispute choose and need to agree on who should be appointed as mediator.

In civil disputes mediators will advise the amount of their fee at the time of the appointment which is usually shared between the parties.

The mediator convenes mediation meetings with the par ties, guides the process and assists the par ties to consider options to resolve the dispute.

However, the mediator cannot force the parties into accepting a settlement

‘

Usually mediation meetings are quite informal and the parties can be more at ease than they would be in court which can be quite intimidating.

which he/she thinks should resolve the issues.

In many instances they may give advice as to what they believe would be the outcome of court proceedings having regard to the strengths and weaknesses of each party’s case.

One of the major advantages of mediation is that the process is not bound

to follow purely legalistic rules and principles.

Both par ties to a successful mediation may feel that the ultimate outcome for both of them was better than taking proceedings in the cour t where Judges have to apply the law to the issues on which the dispute is founded.

Another advantage is that mediation is confidential to the parties and the mediator and others attending the mediation meetings.

Usually mediation meetings are quite informal and the parties can be more at ease than they would be in court which can be quite intimidating.

When a successful mediation has been completed the mediator will prepare the agreement reached which is enforceable between the parties.

There are some minor disadvantages of mediation but the advantages outweigh the disadvantages by a long way.

This article has been prepared by Bessie Paterson, a Partner at ronald W angland & Son, Solicitors, 2 chapman Street, Leeston.

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10

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

❚ with rob cope-Williams

To tree or not to tree

The Government had amazing plans to put a lot of New Zealand under trees and turn border line land into plantations, but as we all knew the figures were plucked from thin air and would never stack up as the stock isn’t available and the army of people to plant them if the nurseries were able to produce the seedlings would never be available.

However, I concede that the basic idea was a good one, just castles in the air and a reason to reintroduce a Forest Service of sorts.

It is interesting that the media glossed over the fact that the figures were totally wrong and when it was revealed that it wasn’t going to happen, there was very little if any noise.

Sort of like a lot of election promises like re-entry into Pike River, but that’s another issue. I suppose it’s a fact that until you get all the facts you can have whatever opinion you like. Elections are like that, aren’t they?

However, back to the trees.

Years ago, the Japanese started to offer huge prices for timber and people went mad planting trees left right and centre, then the prices dropped again and all the trees ended up being sold for prices that weren’t all that great.

Call it band wagon thinking if you like but it is natural to chase high prices, except that trees take a lot longer than a season to harvest.

Goodness, remember the hype about goats, rabbits, ostriches, and the early days

of the deer industry, huge money made by some but big losses by many?

I think the lovely thing about farm forestry is that it earns its keep during its life time by providing shelter for stock and enhances our landscape.

Dairy farmers in particular have been hammered for taking out shelter belts and leaving stock with no shade or shelter from storms because their irrigators take preference.

The other thing, of course, is the experience that the Selwyn Plantation Board found out about planting massed plantations. Nor westers cause havoc and the plains aren’t all that ideal for massive plantings, but rows of nicely managed shelter belts work very well.

Plus you don’t have to plant pines; there are fabulous trees that provide shelter and shade for years before attracting income as timber.

Plus why not plant things such as flowering cherries in the corners where the irrigators don’t get into? Yup great idea to plant trees but don’t be like some people and think what and where.

Finalists lining up A stellar line-up of rural sport athletes, representing an array of disciplines, has been announced as finalists for the Norwood New Zealand Rural Sports Awards.

Sir Brian Lochore, Chair of the New Zealand Rural Sports Awards Judging Panel, says the Norwood New Zealand Rural Sports Awards is about celebrating traditional sports and the people who keep events running year-in and year-out in the towns and settlements across New Zealand.

“This year’s finalists come from a range of rural sporting disciplines, including tree climbing, fencing, shearing, rodeo, endurance horses, wood chopping, gumboot throwing and, for the first time, egg throw and catch.

“It’s a fantastic line-up of finalists, aged from 11 to 77, from those at the pinnacle of their sport internationally to those who have supported and enabled others in rural sports for generations,” Sir Brian said.

“2018 is the second year the awards have been held and they are only possible because of the generosity of sponsors and supporters.”

Tim Myers, Chief Executive Officer at C B Norwood Distributors, said rural sports have been a key part of New Zealand life for generations.

“We’re proud to help highlight the hard work and dedication of our rural athletes but also the organisers of rural sports – the volunteers who make events happen,” Myers said.

“They’re the true heroes in the towns and settlements across New Zealand.”

Nominations for the awards were made by rural sports associations from throughout the country.

The judging panel is chaired by former All Black captain and World Cup winning coach, Sir Brian Lochore, who is also a founding board member of the New Zealand Rural Games Trust.

The other judges are rural sports icon and president of Shearing Sports New Zealand Sir David Fagan, Olympic equestrian medallist Judy ‘Tinks’ Pottinger, MP for Taranaki-King Country Barbara Kuriger, founder and trustee of the Hilux New Zealand Rural Games Steve Hollander, and respected agricultural journalists Craig ‘Wiggy’ Wiggins, Tony Leggett and Jamie Mackay.

Finalists in the five prestigious award categories are: The Norwood New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year: corey church (rotorua) – rodeo; James Kilpatrick (Tauranga) –Tree climbing; Shane Bouskill (Waipawa) – Fencing; John Kirkpatrick (Napier) – Shearing.

The Skellerup New Zealand Sportswoman of the Year: Maryanne Baty (Gisborne) – Shearing; chrissy Spence (Morrinsville) – Tree climbing.

The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year: rebecca Birkett (Taumarunui) – Endurance horses; Tegan O’callaghan (Doubtless Bay) – rodeo; robbie hollander (Dairy Flat) – Egg Throwing & catching.

The Federated Farmers Contribution to the New Zealand Rural Sports Industry: Jason Semenoff (hikurangi) – Wood chopping; Nick Liefting (auckland) – Fencing; Jude McNab (Owaka) – Shearing.

The inaugural Toyota Lifetime Legacy Award: Paul van Beers (Porangahau) – Fencing; hugh Mccarroll (Whangamata) – Shearing; Elizabeth Mortland (Taihape) – Gumboot Throwing.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

March 2018

11

Greymouth gearing up for AgFest Greymouth, the ‘capital’ of the West Coast, is abuzz as it gets ready to host its first Farmlands AgFest.

F

armlands AgFest is a bi-annual field day event and it’s happening on 13 and 14 April in Greymouth.

AgFest is positioned as the number one event on the West Coast. It is now not just a rural event and it will attract a wide variety of the people from rural folk to townies, and due to growth of the event it now has a new and bigger venue at the Greymouth airport.

It’s anticipated that Farmlands AgFest and West Coast Trade Show 2018 will present over 400 exhibitors attracting up to 15,000 people through the gates over the two days.

Farmlands AgFest showcases every aspect of farming in New Zealand. It boasts an awesome home concept centre, a specialised Women’s Pavilion which is always a favourite, large farm and contracting machinery, the latest in vehicles from every car brand imaginable in New Zealand, high quality entertainment from performers such as Jody Direen out of Wanaka and Simon Teague from Christchurch.

Farmlands AgFest also boasts food sites to tempt everyone, and along the way we have huge community involvement with many local groups and charities benefiting.

If you’re a farmer, a lifestyler, or you already know what a legendar y couple of

day’s out this event is, be sure to lock the dates into your diar y now and head over to the Coast for what promises to be the best ever AgFest.

The event organisers are told this is one of the best field days to attend as the event is still small enough to be able to get around in a day – but still has everything you need to see.

Farmlands AgFest is supported and attended by a large number of iconic New Zealand and international brands, and still has limited sites available.

Although it’s backbone is rural it is the only trade type show on the West Coast, so if you’re in business and your business is a fit for Farmlands AgFest, it’s the place to be.

Country and Western: chanteuse Jody Direen will be serenading the crowds at this year’s West coast Farmlands ag Fest.

Photo: Kent caddick

There are limited sites still available, for more information head to the website www.agfest.co.nz and check it out. here you’ll also find the contacts of the team behind Farmlands agFest they are happy to talk to you about the event. admission to Farmlands agFest is just $10, primary school children $2, under 5s are free. If you’re a Farmlands shareholder you can purchase a tickets from Farmlands in Greymouth, hokitika and Westport for $9.

Big crowds expected: Up to 15,000 people are expected to attend this year’s West coast agFest over the two days.

Photo: Kent caddick

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12

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FIELDAYS

❚ with John arts

The power of Curcumin Last edition we looked at research into the healing power of turmeric. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin which is the actual brilliant yellow pigment in turmeric.

I find it fascinating that nature’s most potent healing compounds are locked into brilliant colour. It seems as the colours in fruit, vegetables and spices draw our attention to these marvellous compounds.

The brilliant yellow of curcumin is matched by the deep purples of the active compounds in berries and red wine grape seeds. These compounds are classified as polyphenols and I know of no other group of plant chemicals that have such a profound effect on our health.

I have just spoken with a client who had a very painful hip. We introduced my Turmeric product combined with Magnesium before bed and she is now active again with much less pain.

Curcumin is truly multi-faceted. It actively reduces unwanted inflammation by temporarily disabling inflammatory enzymes while also reducing inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. And it does this without the side effects of drugs.

In fact a clinical trial (Clin Interv Aging.

2014) compared a common medication with curcumin for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and concluded that curcumin was as effective as the anti-inflammatory medication.

I have many clients who are not able to tolerate medications for pain and turmeric supplements can really help.

Humble beginnings: The first year Fieldays was held at Mystery creek in 1971

Fieldays’ humble beginnings

Curcumin though is no one trick pony.

It also has the ability to protect the chondrocyte cells that secrete and maintain cartilage. It does this through its potent antioxidant functions which are greatly magnified by adding quality grape seed extract. Free radical damage of chondrocytes appears to be the main driver of osteoarthritis.

Feel free to contact me for advice. I offer a complimentary programme for joint health support for those with osteoarthritis and other joint problems.

John arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of abundant health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his full weekly newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.

ric Turme C P with O

In 1969, the first New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays was held at Hamilton’s Te Rapa Racecourse. The Town and Country Fair, as it was known then, aimed to bring rural and urban audiences together to celebrate New Zealand’s farming industry and lifestyle and the contribution it makes to the economy.

F

ast forward 50 years, and Fieldays is a staple on many agricultural people’s calendars, with hundreds of thousands descending on Mystery Creek each June.

This year, it celebrates its 50th year of showcasing agriculture and innovation to rural and urban audiences alike.

Celebrations kicked off recently with an event at its first home, Te Rapa Racecourse.

There, local politicians and district mayors, agricultural leaders, past and present presidents and members of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, Waikato Racing Club members and other VIP guests relived the early days with speeches and anecdotes, and the unveiling of a specially-commissioned anniversary sculpture.

The Racecourse housed Fieldays in its first two years before the event was moved to its current location at Mystery Creek in 1971.

Many who attended the opening 50th anniversary event were responsible for organising the inaugural Fieldays in 1969, including John Kneebone, who first sparked the idea for a town and country fair in New Zealand on a trip to the United Kingdom as a Nuffield scholar.

New Zealand National Fieldays Society CEO Peter Nation paid tribute to the Waikato Racing Club for its collaboration in the early days and the sacrifices they made to help pull it off.

“The organisers at that first event in 1969 thought they’d have a couple thousand people turn up. But on the day, it turned out to

be more than 10,000 with cars parked all the way up Te Rapa Straight, which was farmland back then,” Nation said.

“I can only imagine the state of the racecourse after the first day with all those people trampling across it. We’re very grateful for that early relationship with the racing club, a relationship we’re still proud to have.”

He also acknowledged the original six farmers of the Fieldays Society, whose tenacity and perseverance he said paved the way for Fieldays to become the premiere agricultural showcase it is today, contributing half a billion dollars to the global economy each year.

“Those first six farmers approached ANZ in North Hamilton for a 100% loan of $62,500, $430,000 in today’s money, so they could move Fieldays to Mystery Creek,” Nation said.

“At the time, Mystery Creek was a rundown dairy farm but had been identified as the site to house the event for future growth.

“The story goes that when the Society went into the bank they were asked what security they had for the loan, and one of the farmers threw a roll of copper wire on the bank manager’s desk and said, ‘this is the only asset we own’.”

That wire had been used for communication at Fieldays over the loudspeakers at Te Rapa Racecourse, where it was removed each year and put into storage for safekeeping.

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CANTERBURY FARMING March 2018

13

Copper loops Fieldays anniversary sculpture ‘tribute to farming’ The anniversary sculpture unveiled at the opening event, entitled Origin ‘68, incorporates the same copper wire that was thrown on that bank manager’s desk decades ago, mounted on the reclaimed native timber that once lined the Fieldays Society’s original boardroom.

FROM PAGE 12 “The copper in the sculpture is very important,” Nation said.

“It’s not only a valued commodity, but it signifies communication and the transfer of information, and relationships and collaboration. It also speaks to that No.8 wire mentality, that Kiwi way of just getting it done.

“It’s important the sculpture be for everyone to enjoy, because Fieldays isn’t just an event for farmers and the agricultural industry – it’s a chance for everyone to get together and celebrate agriculture as a fantastic, integral part of New Zealand’s lifestyle and economy.”

Auckland-based sculptor and jewellery designer Cherise Thomson was delighted to work on a sculpture of such significance.

“It was such an honour to be chosen,” she said.

Thomson placed second in Fieldays’ No.8 Wire National Art Awards in 2016 with her wire sculpture Korowai, and was a finalist again in 2017.

She said the 12 copper loops framed with native timber is a tribute to the seasonal life of farming, and the dedication of Fieldays’ volunteers and staff.

“I wanted the sculpture to represent the cycle of interconnectedness, inspiration and growth that has made Fieldays what it is from the founders’ original vision 50 years ago.”

Origin ’68 will be at Waikato Museum as part of the 50th anniversary Fieldays exhibition in May.

Arty opening: New Zealand National Fieldays Society Chief Executive Peter Nation and artist Cherise Thomson with her sculpture entitled ‘Origin ’68” which marks 50 years of Fieldays.

The opening event is one of many planned to celebrate Fieldays’ anniversary in the lead up to June 13, when the 50th event kicks off at Mystery Creek.

This year’s theme is the ‘future of farming’, with visitors and exhibitors being encouraged to start discussions around what the future of farming means to them.

About New Zealand National Fieldays New Zealand National Fieldays is based on a 114 hectare site at Mystery Creek, 10 minutes from Hamilton. It is the largest agricultural event in the Southern Hemisphere.

This year, Fieldays celebrates its 50th anniversary. This year’s theme, the future of farming, will examine agricultural trends and ideas for the future while celebrating the wide-ranging contributions Fieldays has made to the agricultural industry since its inception in 1968.

Fieldays by the numbers: 2017 • A record 133,588 people visited Fieldays in 2017 – a new high • There were more than 30,000 downloads of the Fieldays app • 998 exhibitors were showcased across 1,473 sites • 232 volunteers helped make Fieldays 2017 a success • 10,680 visitors travelled by bus to Fieldays, a 200% increase on 2016 • 93% of visitors rated Fieldays as very good or excellent

Fieldays is run by the New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays Society Inc., a charitable society founded in 1968 to advance the primary industry. For more information visit fieldays.co.nz

Crowd puller: A record 133,588 people visited Fieldays in 2017.

14

March 2018 CANTERBURY FARMING

High country fertilising

❚❚Article supplied by Viafos Save time and money by utilising farm saved seed Seed treatment is your first line of defence against pests and disease Operating a high capacity gravity table to increase quality for re-sowing and contract specifications Mobile trailer with indent cylinders for fine cleaning and length separation with cereals or rye grass Twin rotor screening machine with aspiration for screening all types of seeds for contract specs.

Contracting available or FOR DRY HIRE

There are immense open space areas and steep gullies, which are challenging places to fertilise, while the land is hungry and in need of phosphate, calcium and a bit of sulphur would benefit.

This is a short summary but represents a lot of New Zealand’s high-country land. To increase the soil fertility on this type of land, the only way is to get the plane out to apply fertiliser.

The question is, ‘what to apply?’ Considering the cost of applying fertiliser on these vast areas, we want it to do the job effectively for a long time.

To achieve this goal, Viafos Fertilisers have come up with a great solution to bring high country land to a higher level of production. The product is called FosSul. FosSul is a granular fertiliser which supplies slow release 9% Phosphate, 4.8% Sulphur and a good 25% of calcium which equates to Aglime.

The Biogro and Fertmark certified Viafos fertiliser range contains a product called V10 as a general phosphate fertiliser. The v10 is the basis for the FosSul fertiliser.

The strength of V10 is that it is a natural phosphate with two charges. Phosphate is available in forms with one, two or three charges.

A phosphate with one charge, like superphosphate is water soluble and high water solubility results in losses by run-off and lock up. The economical return on the fertiliser application is therefore negatively impacted.

A different option is P with a triple charge.

A phosphate with three charges has a very low and slow phosphate availability.

The right pick is V10 and is sits in between the mono and triple phosphate. V10 phosphate is a double or ‘di’ charge phosphate. V10 phosphate has a very low water solubility but is easily accessible by soil biology. This takes away all the negative impacts of run-off or lock-up but gets the job done, what makes it a very economical choice.

The product naturally contains many trace minerals like manganese, zinc and molybdenum and calcium. The great benefit of the calcium is that it increases nutrient availability in general.

Where does the sulphur come from?

Sulphate sulphur (sulphate common in many fertlisers) is also very water soluble and leaches out of the soil profile. An alternative to this is elemental sulphur.

FosSul for aerial applications contains elemental sulphur which is a slow release sulphur fertiliser. For the easy of application, we decided to put the both slow release products in one sustainable cost effective P, S and calcium granule called FosSul. Depending on the fertility of the soil, an application of 200 kg FosSul to the hectare gives a great boost to the country in one go as it applies the equivalent of 200 kg lime, up to 400 kg super (depending of P retention and aluminium), and provides a long term sulphur supply which stimulates your clovers and you receive a range of trace elements.

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

15

The right pasture renewal method There are four main ways to renew pasture, cultivation, spray-drilling, undersowing and oversowing. We look at the advantages of all four.

❚ by Kent caddick Cultivation Involves breaking up the soil prior to sowing with the likes of a plough, power harrow, discs or rotocrumbler.

It is necessary where there is a need to eliminate compaction or levelling, or lime incorporation is required.

Advantages: • Most consistent results • Eliminates compaction • Best pest and weed control • Can level paddock • Can incorporate lime • Allows good soil coverage by seed • Disadvantages • Most expensive method • Slower to first grazing (6-10 weeks) • Softer and more prone to pugging during establishment

Spray and drill A direct-drill is used to sow treated seed into an uncultivated paddock after existing pasture killed by herbicide.

Advantages: • Herbicide controls competition • Less expensive and less time consuming than cultivation • Quicker to first grazing (6 weeks) • White clover establishment is possible • Long term solution

Disadvantages: • Less opportunity to correct pH • Won’t fix soil compaction or level paddock • May revert to old pasture more quickly than cultivated paddocks • Two drill passes at half the seeding rate are desirable to achieve dense pasture • Loss of production after spraying

Undersowing Use a direct-drill to sow treated seed into existing pasture.

Works very well in the narrow window of time when a pasture has thinned out but has not yet been overtaken by weed ingression.

Use after extended dry conditions where large areas need to be sown, or after winter pugging damage.

Results are variable where it’s used in pastures too dense for the new seedlings to establish well.

Advantages: • Cheap and simple • Allows large areas to be done • Italian or hybrid can boost winter-early spring growth Disadvantages: • Doesn’t work in dense pastures • Doesn’t control problem weeds • Unsuitable for white clover • Usually only a temporary fix

Oversowing: Treated seed is broadcasted on to the surface of the soil.

Generally used to repair smaller areas, for example after pugging damage, or to establish white clover in spring into pastures where the land is too steep or stony for cultivation.

Not recommended for improvement of lowland pastures due to high seeding mortality.

Sowing rates are generally higher, as establishment rates of seed placed on the ground surface are lower.

Advantages: • Can introduce legumes and N fixation • Can apply with fertiliser Disadvantages: • Variable results • Hard to control competition

Autumn pasture tips • All rough growth on paddocks should be taken right off. If you have mature cattle, or can borrow some, make them work to clean it all off, especially tufts of cocksfoot.

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• If this leaves a lot of dead rubbish, remove it as it’s always a source of fungal growth.

• What the cattle won’t eat, take off with a slasher or weedeater. If you don’t, fresh green regrowth will be slow.

• After this clean up, give the paddocks a light chain harrowing to spread dung pats.

• Slash off any beds of Californian thistles (just before it rains if possible), dead docks and ragwort and plan to treat them early next spring. Lack of early action means their seed will be with you for a long time.

• Make a stand-off area for cattle during wet periods in winter to avoid pugging.

• After an extended summer dry spell, you may have to consider some ‘pasture renovation’. This can be expensive so seek professional help.

• Get a soil test done and seek advice on what fertiliser is needed.

16

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

Sebco expands range with more cost effective models Fuel Storage Systems Ltd of Ashburton who manufacture the Sebco range of diesel, waste oil and AdBlue storage tanks, have just announced the launch of a new range of cost effective models to further compliment their existing diesel storage line up.

S

a lower diesel use have also upgraded to vehicles with a common rail engine, such as the tractors, farm ute, or SUV that the family use,” Ed Harrison, Managing Director of Sebco, says.

“These require clean fuel and the design of our bunding system virtually eliminates condensation, the inner vessel cannot rot or rust, so the fuel that is dispensed from these models is as clean as it can be.”

The Sebco Economy range is fitted with the quality components and offers a manual pump

ebco said they had enquiry from farmers and industrial companies who did not have the need to have computerised fuel management, but wanted a basic, compliant, safe and secure tank with most of the advantages of the other Sebco diesel stations.

“What we discovered was operators with

that is easy to access and operate. It also has 4 metres of delivery hose with nozzle so there is no fear of spilling while you fill.

All pumping equipment, hose and nozzle are located behind a lock up door that Affordable quality: The Sebco Economy range from under $4,000 offers great security and the whole unit is a neat and tidy way of storSebco is committed to providing a smart ing your diesel fuel. Sebco units feature a storage facility for all farmers’ diesel re5 year warranty on the rotomoulded tanks quirements, and to also keep developing and offer a 25 year design life. the award winning tanks to further enhance Pricing of these units start from security and safety around fuel storage on $3,990.00 plus GST. your property.

Sebco is now into its eleventh year of production and has delivered over 2000 diesel stations in New Zealand and Australia. Sebco can be contacted on 0800 473 226.

Talk to us today about your farms soil fertility.

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CANTERBURY FARMING March 2018

17

Precision soil testing for good management and less fertiliser Putting fertiliser exactly where required and not over supplying soil is good for the crop, the environment and your bottom line.

supplied by ❚❚Article ❚❚Agronomy Solutions

Matching the crops requirements with the availability in the soil and only applying what’s needed makes growers’ fertiliser budgets go further. All crops have different needs and yield expectations, which should be considered when making fertiliser plans.

Agronomy Solutions look at the soil nutrient status to ascertain what it can provide for growing the chosen crop and then aims to replace any shortfalls with fertiliser and take into account nutrient supplied from other sources.

This approach can only be done by having comprehensive knowledge and nutrient status of every hectare.

In almost all situations there are variances in levels across the paddock, especially with larger areas where perhaps fences have been moved for irrigation or paddocks merged.

Old stock camps and holding paddocks with high nutrients are identified. Areas that yield higher for various reasons like soil structure, water holding capacity etc.,

tend to remove more nutrient over time and levels are lower.

The system of rigorous testing will find these areas and make sure that adequate nutrients are supplied to maintain the higher yields.

Lime and soil pH are also key for maintain yield and insuring the availability of nutrients to the growing crops.

Agronomy Solutions soil testing system picks up the different areas and variation in soil pH. Lime rates are correctly matched to soil tests and a liming plan implemented to keep the soils in the best possible shape for the crops requirements.

Too much lime can be equally damaging as too little. Generally, less lime is required over the farm in time.

How the system works Testing is done on a rotational basis with a block each year, and the information used to make plans for the next three to five years, soil type depending.

Because plans are tailored for each crop it requires a good understanding of crop nutrient removal to allow replacement and

supply of exactly what is required. This enables the production of plans that are cost effective for growers.

The aim is to provide an independent view of soil nutrient management in the best interest of clients and the crops they

grow. Variable rate plans can be produced on behalf of growers who have their own fertiliser plans.

Remember: “Every hectare counts” Call 027 445 0170 for more information.

18

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

AGRICULTURAL SPRAYING

New Horizon series of sprayers released Sands Agricultural Machinery (SAM) recently released the new Horizon series of sprayers. These have been designed to comply with new European Union engine emission and cab filtration rules.

T

he new Horizon cab has improved vision because it is designed without any rear corner posts to block the view of the booms.

The booms are also back lit with special blue lights so they clearly show the boom height above the crop.

SAM has also redesigned the chassis to take 46 inch wheels along with the traditional 28, 30 and 34 inch wheels. This makes the new Horizon machines one of the most versatile on the market, and when fitted with the optional hydraulic sliding and locking axles gives the operators limitless options.

Horizon series machines will be produced in 3000 litre to 6000 litre versions.

Booms are available from 12 to 48m, and either alloy or steel.

On the 36m Horizon sprayer, the al-

loy booms keeps the weight to around 9t which makes it one of the lightest in its class.

The SAM sprayer range is unique in that it has a pressure based rate control system than allows the use of both spray lines completely independently of each other allowing variable application rates across the boom.

SAM sprayers can be purchased with almost any GPS system to do simple guidance, auto steering and or boom section control.

Talbots sell both new and used machines and to date have sold over 150 machines here and all are still in work, some with over 20,000 hours on them.

Reliability is enhanced through the use of air to control a lot of functions and heavier rated hydrostatic systems and ultra-reliable Duetz engines.

Talbots keep a good supply of the few parts required to keep the sprayers in top order.

One of the things which make a used SAM sprayer a very good option is the fact that the factory has parts for all the sprayers they have ever produced.

Talbot Agriculture is the only registered examiner to carry out the NSTS Certificate of spray-worthiness test, this is a 68 point annual check list that exceeds all other New Zealand requirements and ensures that owners can be assured of accuracy and reliability at all times.

Most of all, they are come with reliable back up from Talbot Agriculture and Sands Agricultural Machinery.

call today for a price and demonstration.

SKYFARMERS

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CANTERBURY FARMING

AGRICULTURAL SPRAYING

March 2018

19

Smart spraying saves dollars, makes sense

❚ Article supplied by Talbot Agriculture

Optimising spray applications will save money on chemicals and do a better job, according to a leading New Zealand sprayer tester and operator.

And from what he’s seen, there’s widespread room for improvement in contract and farmer-operator practice.

“The sprayer is the most important piece of equipment on an arable farm today,” Jeremy Talbot of Talbot Agriculture told a recent Foundation for Arable Research-organised workshop.

“The biggest issue is the choice of nozzle.

With the same water rate different nozzles do very different things.”

Talbot says air-induction nozzles are used far too widely and many operators would do better to use standard flat fan nozzles, or preferably a twin-cap with two flat-fan orifices.

“You get an eight-fold increase in the number of drops and four times the deposition on the crop or target weeds, and for most chemicals that’s where they need to be. If they hit the soil they’re wasted.”

Glyphosate applications are a classic example. To demonstrate the difference the nozzle can make Talbot set up a SAM sprayer with twin-caps and low drift air induction nozzles and applied the same rate of Glyphosate chemical at 1l/ha and water at 160l/ha through both to a paddock in North Otago.

A good burn-off was achieved with the twincaps, while control through the air induction nozzles failed.

“Whether it’s glyphosate, other herbicides, or fungicides: this is why people find they don’t get the same results with the chemicals that the likes of FAR get in their trials. They’re just not getting enough onto the target.”

Another problem, particularly where contractors are concerned, is using too little water.

Fewer fill-ups means a considerable increase in area that can be covered in a day, hence why contractors are keen to reduce volumes, Talbot says.

“But it comes back to coverage. If you’re using less water there are fewer drops per hectare and you’ll get less chemical onto the target.”

In Europe, some countries have introduced legislation specifying a minimum of 150 litres/ha of water be used as it’s now accepted low water volumes have hastened the onset of herbicide resistance in certain weed populations.

“Only two countries are still using air induction nozzles and very low water rates widely, and that’s Australia and UK.” Australia’s and the UK’s herbicide resistant grassweed problems are well documented and Talbot says it’s only thanks to the diverse rotations on most New Zealand arable farms that similar issues haven’t arisen here yet.

“If you have to use air-induction nozzles to prevent drift then I would question whether you should be spraying at all. If you really must get on and the only way to do so is with low-drift nozzles they you need to increase the rate of water to a 150l/ha minimum and ensure that at least 4 bar pressure is used and ensure that a full rate of chemical is used just to get the same deposition as a standard flat fan.”

Talbot imports Sands SAM sprayers and is New Zealand’s only UK-qualified sprayer tester. In their own 600ha cropping operation he says they use Twin-caps with 180 litres/ ha of water for almost everything.

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“Spraying should be a smooth, non-stressful job.”

Spray tips • Don’t speed: increases drift, boom bounce, yaw, and in/out problems.

• Beware low-drift nozzles: efficacy compromised.

• Keep water volume up: 150 litres/ha minimum.

• Twin-cap nozzles help hit both sides of target.

• Remove PPE before entering cab.

• Right nozzle, speed and volume = less chemical cost.

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The forward and backward angle of each pair of nozzles means spray hits both sides of a plant, or, in the case of soil active applications, either side of a clod.

“A standard flat-fan leaves a shadow area and you’ll get weeds coming up from that. The Twin-cap does a 20-30% better job even on Treflan etc which surprises a lot of people.

Driving too fast increases drift, which is another reason why some contractors favour low drift nozzles, says Talbot. He advocates a maximum of 12kmh, or down to 10kmh if there is drift, slowing to 8-9kmh to turn on headlands.

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March 2018

ADVERTORIAL

CANTERBURY FARMING

Specialists in custom design and build Leeston based Structure Wise Ltd is a Kiwi owned and operated company and has proudly been designing and supplying buildings specifically to their customers’ needs since 1990.

Managing director Phil Williams has over 25 years’ experience in construction as well as an expansive rural background meaning Structure Wise is well equipped to help clients (both rural and commercial) with all their building needs.

Phil says Structure Wise gradually developed through its customers’ requirements after it recognised a need in the market for exceptional shed structures.

“Due to the flexibility we can offer, the company has been led into a range of exciting directions over the years.

“What differentiates us from our competitors is our custom design and build,” Phil says.

“Our team of licensed builders, engineers, and draftsmen can design and build your structure from scratch.

“Add to this our dedicated admin staff and you have a company that has developed a diverse range of products and a customer focus that is second to none. No structure is too big or too difficult.

Whether you need a farm shed, warehouse, loafing barn, storage shed or hangar – Structure Wise is the company for you.”

Structure Wise normally services the greater Canterbury region but has completed projects across

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New Zealand. It also has the option to design and send kit sets to customers nationwide.

“We take pride in calling Canterbury home and have a strong commitment to our environment and our community.”

ADVERTORIAL

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

21

Enclosed Steel Purlins – the bird proof purlin “Bird droppings on your machinery… nobody wants that!” Now there is a cost efficient solution that is not limited to the smaller spans of timber nor cumbersome flashings for steel purlins...

FROM PAGE 26 The edge: Structure Wise offer the Steelbone building system with enclosed steel purlins, a low-cost bird-proof solution.

The patent pending Steelbone Enclosed Steel Purlins provide an enclosed steel section with no visible roof or wall fixings, which is bird and vermin proof.

This range has a greater capacity than other bird proof options including sawn timber solutions and recommended for bay widths up to 8m.

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Next time you consider investing in a building, think Steelbone, and contact Structure Wise to discuss options or to request a free no obligation quote.

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March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

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STHD8. ^3 years of $199 capped service ST (excludes $1,500* rebate for MY17/18 Defender HD5, $1,000* rebate for MY17/18 Defender GST New Zealand only)(3 years, 350 hours or 5,500 km, whichever comes first with a maximum of 4 services) and 14 days Money Back Guarantee** for MY17/18 Outlander 450 & 570 PRO/DPS,see full terms and conditions in-store or at www.canamoffroad.com. †3 © 2018 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP).

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23

24

March 2018 CANTERBURY FARMING

ADVERTISEMENT

RURAL HOMES, SHEDS AND SHELTERS

Tiny homes with big hearts If you’re looking to build extra accommodation on the farm, for seasonal workers or maybe an elderly relative or growing children, then a portable cottage from Eco Cottages NZ is definitely worth a look.

Eco Cottages are the ultimate in space saving homes with an innovative design that offers exceptional value.

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CANTERBURY FARMING March 2018

25

26

March 2018 CANTERBURY FARMING

Why should you use a Quantity Surveyor when building or renovating your home?

Before you invite tenders from builders, you may want to get some costings to get an idea whether you can afford to go ahead.

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supplied by ❚❚Article Consumer New Zealand ❚❚

You can use a quantity surveyor (QS) to get an accurate costing before you put the job out to tender. Then when the tenders come in you have a good basis to evaluate them.

A quantity surveyor (QS) is a person trained in construction methods and costs.

They work closely with you and the architect/ designer, engineer and builder to itemise the quantities of materials and labour needed to build or renovate a house, using the design drawings.

The quantity surveyor’s estimate can give you a reasonable idea of the costs and it can be used by the builders when tendering their quotes. (Note that the builder should only be given the QS estimate of materials required, not the price.)

Make sure that when you engage a quantity surveyor you know what sort of service they are providing. If you ask a general question, such as “how much to build a garage?” you will get a best guess which may be way off target. But if you ask for a precise costing, you will get more accurate information.

A QS can also be used to calculate progress payments and to cost variations dur-

ing construction. They can also advise on the type of contract or the meaning of any special clauses that should be included in the contract. You can buy part of a QS service, for example, you might only use them for progress payments.

You would most likely use a QS if you are only getting one quote or if you are managing the project yourself. That way you have a benchmark to see if the quote is fair.

The New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors represents QSs. A full member of NZIQS is entitled to use the initials MNZIQS (Member of the New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors Inc).

For more info, visit: www.consumerbuild.org.nz

Multi Purpose Portable Buildings.

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FOR HIRE OR BUY Sales contacts: Jim Webster Sales Manager 027 931 2884 Russley Portables Office 03 357 2950

Office and Construction: 656 Wairakei Road Christchurch New Zealand. russley.portables@xtra.co.nz www.russleyportables.co.nz

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

27

Proud track record of structural success

Known for their fast and easy-to-build kitset farm sheds, Alpine Buildings has become a well-known and respected name in Canterbury.

❚ Article supplied by Alpine Buildings

The company supplies a large range of high quality clearspan buildings and sheds to farmers, contractors and builders throughout the region and wider New Zealand.

Everything is thought of when an Alpine kitset shed is supplied. The kitset pack will turn up direct to site with not a single screw missing, thanks to Alpine’s vigorous quality control and triple checking procedures. The kitset sheds are well organised and easy to set up.

A Canterbury farmer who has just installed his third Alpine building says, “I am extremely pleased with the new shed. Alpine used their experience to design what I wanted, and then delivered. A simple observation is that Alpine do what they say they are going to, this is too hard for many.”

Why choose Alpine Buildings?

A key feature of the Alpine design is the birdproof steel rafter system, which has proven its cost effectiveness and time-saving benefits for many clients.

Being the first company to supply hot dip gal-

vanising on all standard spans, these rafters are a breakthrough towards stronger, better looking and longer lasting sheds.

The timber purlins are simply bolted to prewelded joist hangers on the side of the steel rafters, meaning there is nowhere for any birds to perch or nest in the roof cavity.

Other stand-out features include the pre-dried timber, plumb-cut beams, superb quality control, free delivery direct to the building site and superior after-sales support.

Designed and engineered for strength, Alpine Buildings have a proud track record of structural success.

Alpine structures are designed and engineered specifically for the wind and snow loadings at your site, and have outperformed other structures when strength really matters. Alpine’s commitment to safety, strength and reliability is second to none and they take great pride in supplying the highest quality products available. call the team at alpine on 0800 428 453 for expert advice on your next farm shed or building.

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28

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

FORESTRY

Chinese demand slowing, India moving up

February was a month of uncertainty across the log export part of our business and we watch with baited breath how Chinese New Year will play out in terms of demand and inventory.

allan Laurie MNZIF ❚ with ❚ Laurie Forestry Ltd Basically China closes down for about two weeks in February as does New Zealand during our Christmas break.

A high percentage of the China population work away from their homelands and return

for Chinese New Year thus adding somewhat to traffic congestion. But this also means manufacturing basically grinds to a halt.

For sawmills, the log intake basically started to drift down from early January and by mid-February total consumption across the eastern seaboard to be less than 25,000 cubic metres per day. This is half what it was in

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the first week of February and well below the 70,000 per day, on average, in October and November last year.

Meanwhile in New Zealand, sawmills continue at a busy pace with strong demand across the construction and outdoors sectors.

Most sawmills appear to be in better balance getting the logs they need but at times also running close to the wind.

Log prices for Q1 have increased slightly keeping in trend with general market comparatives.

There is some general speak in the market that domestic lumber prices are coming under upward pressure.

This is good news indeed with log prices continuing to increase over the last two years while lumber prices have remained largely flat.

While high log prices are a great outcome for forest owners, if sawmills cannot make profits that reflect their levels of investment and risk then something is going to break.

Long term forest owners do not want to go there.

For the Canterbury region, a sign of reduced harvest volumes and total demand is reflected in the fuel and energy sector, essential chip and firewood logs which are often bundled in to a segment called residues.

Residue demand is currently exceeding supply and prices are on the increase. In fact, since Christmas, I have seen a $5 to

$7 per tonne lift which is quite extraordinary in this sector.

Back in China, as at mid-February log inventory across the eastern seaboard has lifted to 4.38 million cubic metres and is expected to rise to 5.5 million by end of February.

At any other time of year this would have everyone running to their panic stations but all current data is about exactly what everyone was expecting.

When Chinese sawmill owners return to work, port uptake will be a pace as yards look to restock. The big question mark will be around how this plays out. Right now we do not see anything outside what most would term “normal”.

India is continuing the upward demand trend following a post GST economic recovery.

Log inventories in the two main ports of Kandla and Mundra are very low and speculation is rife as can be the way of India.

Most commentators are indicating they believe log price increases are on the horizon which will take this market ahead of China in wharf gate New Zealand terms.

The improving strength of the US dollar against the Kiwi is taking all the fun out of the game at present.

Indeed the NZ$4 to $6 per cubic metre decrease in wharf gate prices in February is the direct consequence of exchange rate.

In earning terms in one month and a $5 per cubic metre drop, equates to about NZ$6.5mil out of NZ forest grower pockets.

Recent announcements of the Government’s plans to grow our forest estate through a range of lease and or JV mechanisms with land owners, is fantastic news indeed.

It is a huge opportunity for land owners to step into a very profitable land use at virtually zero cost meanwhile creating a potential carbon off set and receiving regular income off land that might otherwise have been low producing. Do give us a call if this is you.

Thus it remains as always fundamentally important, the only way forward for climate, country and the planet is to get out there and plant more trees.

CANTERBURY FARMING

FORESTRY

March 2018

29

Successful establishment of seedlings Planting a tree seedling is easy – just dig a hole, place the roots in the hole and cover with soil.

Article supplied by hand weeding is to be carried out. to stop the seedling moving in the wind, but Make sure the planting hole is large and not to compact the soil too tightly round the Farm Forestry New Zealand

❚ ❚

Successful establishment of tree seedlings so that they are still alive and growing vigorously a few years later and grow on to become mature trees, however, requires a lot more attention to detail.

Good forward planning pays dividends, so always plan just what you need to do well in advance of actual planting.

Key factors for success are: • Make sure the species chosen is suitable for the site.

• Use good quality tree stock.

• Take great care in the handling, transport and storage of seedlings.

• Ensure the planting site is well prepared, where possible by deep cultivation with a winged ripper, and perhaps pre-plant spraying with a weedicide.

• Plant seedlings as recommended in this leaflet.

• Prevent weeds from competing with the seedlings for at least a year after planting.

• Protect seedlings from browsing by stock and wild animals.

deep enough to accommodate all the roots without bending or distorting them in any way.

Spread the roots apart as much as possible with no tangles, and cover them with loose soil. Lift the seedling 2 to 3cm while shaking, to allow soil to filter between the roots and to ensure that all roots are pointing downwards.

Firm the surface with the sole of your boot, taking care not to strip the foliage or branches from the stem while doing so. In firming the soil, the aim should be to ensure that the surface is sufficiently compact

roots, especially if it is wet and/or heavy.

Except on wet soils or high rainfall areas, leave the seedling standing in a slight depression.

When planting into ground which has been sprayed with a pre-emergence weedkiller, take care to prevent surface soil from falling into the planting hole.

If the surface soil has been removed before digging the hole, replace it round the stem.

For more information on planting seedlinmgs and other forestry advice go to www.nzffa.org.nz

Growing tall: Before planting your forestry block ensure the species chosen is suitable for the site.

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Basic principles

• Slabs/tabletops/beams/sleepers cut

When planting shelterbelts on wet sites, create a raised bed by cultivating the soil in dry weather and forming a mound with an angled blade on the back of a tractor.

Plant seedlings into cultivated or loosened soil. If the site has not been deeply cultivated by ripping or bedding, cultivate the site by hand at the time of planting so that new root growth can be made into loosened soil.

Plant seedlings so that the root collar is buried at least 5 to 10cm. This is particularly important on dry or exposed sites, or where

• Certified tree felling (fully insured) • Routered wood signs Dave Neame

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Forest Management LTD

With 25 years experience in the industry, the Forest Management Team offer services in:

THE FUTURE

• Woodlot and shelterbelt harvesting • Timber sales to domestic and export markets • Forest establishment of harvested and greenfield sites • Forest valuation

Planting a billion trees in ten years is a huge challenge.

The government’s aim is long term – for employment and climate change targets decades into the future.

Today’s children will get the rewards when they are grown up.

The new trees could add 500,000 hectares to New Zealand’s established 1.7 million hectares of plantation forests.

That land is our contribution already. We’ll produce 32 million cubic metres of logs for timber this year and we replant the land after we harvest.

We look forward to sharing; with government, iwi and farmers, all of the great future which comes with growing trees.

Let’s plant.

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• Emission Trading Scheme advice and management • Trainer/Assessor in NZQA forestry related units Our highly experienced teams aim to ensure value optimisation in all aspects of forest management.

To find out more call us on 03 343 4101 or visit www.forestmanagement.co.nz

30

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

DAIRY

Synlait renews infant formula supply Synlait have announced a new five year supply agreement for packaged infant formula with Bright Dairy.

❚ By Kent caddick Synliat boss John Penno said the agreement provides certainty around production volumes for both parties and builds on previous supply arrangements put in place since the relationship began in 2011.

“This new agreement is a positive step in our long standing partnership and we’re looking forward to playing a key role in the future success of Bright Dairy’s infant formula business,” Penno said.

The agreement includes a commitment from both parties to prescribed production volumes each year for Bright Dairy’s Pure Canterbury infant formula brand.

The Pure Canterbury range of infant formula is Bright Dairy’s flagship infant nutrition brand and was launched in 2011. It is sold throughout China in both online and traditional channels.

“This agreement will underpin Synlait’s application to register Pure Canterbury with the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA),” Penno said.

“Overall, the agreement targets a fourfold increase from current volumes over the five-year term.”

As well as being an infant formula customer, Bright Dairy is also Synlait’s largest shareholder by volume with a 39.4% stake.

“We are fortunate to have one of our largest and earliest infant formula customers as a major shareholder,” Penno said.

“This shareholder dynamic is something we share with a number of our customers and it fosters a close relationship that focuses on the medium to long term success for everyone involved.”

Other infant nutrition customers with a strategic shareholding in Synlait Milk include The a2 Milk Company and Munchkin Inc. “Synlait is a growth company and all of our shareholders, including customers, support our policy to reinvest our success into the organisation here in New Zealand.”

The power of being prepared Reduce the risk of power cuts

CUT DOWN – please consider removing tall trees that could fall through power lines.

TRIM EARLY – if you can’t cut down the tree, keep remaining trees trimmed to at least 2.5m from low voltage lines or at least 4m from high voltage lines. Ideally further.

BE SAFE – please call Orion on 0800 363 9898 for a list of qualified contractors.

PLANT WISELY – ask us about safe planting distances and power line friendly trees and shrubs. oriongroup.co.nz

Committed: The Pure canterbury range of infant formula is Bright Dairy’s flagship infant nutrition brand and sold throughout china.

Contract signed: Synlait’s John Penno and Bright Dairy have renewed their supply agreement.

DAIRY

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

31

Fred hoekstra ❚ with VeeHof ❚

Ensuring cow comfort

How do you handle your cows individually? Can you restrain your cow so that she is comfortable and you are safe?

This is a major issue on dairy farms. I went to a farm a little while ago to trim 20 to 30 cows. For some reason the farmer had started doing some cows before I got there.

When I turned up he came out and greeted me and helped me set up.

There was a cow lying down in the vet race.

She had gone down as the farmer was trimming her feet. She was still down by the time I left and as far as I know she never got up again.

This is not uncommon and I would like to raise this topic to help you avoid such accidents.

There is a right way and a wrong way to restrain cows. When a cow is being restrained there are some principles that always apply:

fortable unless you don’t know you are unsafe.

This has happened to many people who have told us stories about braking arms, losing teeth or lying unconscious behind a cow because that cow kicked back.

When trimming a back leg of a cow the leg should be lifted from the hock and the trimmer should always stand beside the cow, in the same way a horse farrier stands beside the horse.

The cows’ leg should be lifted high enough so that you can comfortably lean onto the cow with your back pretty much upright or slightly bent forward.

The operator needs to be in control at all times Cows sense whether somebody is nervous and lacking confidence. When a cow is tied up in a crush you should always being able to lift or lower her using winches without handles flying around by themselves. A braked winch with reduction is the answer here.

Good facilities and some proper training are essential elements to being safe and gaining the confidence and control needed to do a good job.

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The cow needs to be comfortable If the cow is not comfortable she will be a lot more unsettled. This seems common sense but is often overlooked. Consider the surface the cow is standing on.

Obviously a slippery surface is not good but an equally or maybe even more important point is that the cow must be standing on a flat or sloping up surface.

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32

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

❚ with Peter Burton

DAIRY

How management can lessen the impact of dry weather

In our second season of sharemilking there was a major facial eczema outbreak in autumn.

I remember the conditions well, it was hot and muggy with little wind and low cloud cover, for what seemed like weeks on end. imals huddling together in an attempt to find shade, yet the photos of late from affected areas show animals grazing greenish pastures, a clear sign that there is still growth.

Within the district there will be some farms drier than others and growing less feed, and the question is, why? Could the overuse of nitrogen fertiliser be a contributing factor?

Drought relates not just to the dryness of the soil, but also the ability of plants to grow, with different plants able to withstand drier conditions than others.

Lucerne thrives in conditions where rye grass struggles to survive. Lucerne survives because its root system penetrates far further into the soil allowing it to extract nutrient and moisture from further down.

Standard rye grass white clover pastures are reliant on moisture from closer to the surface, primarily the top 7.5cm, although plants in well-structured soils have roots to 30cm and below.

The key to retaining more moisture within the root zone of the plant is being able to increase carbon levels.

Graham Shepherd states that… “an increase of 1% organic C in the top 300mm of soil can increase the soils capacity to hold

Making good choices: Lucerne, with its penetrating root system, thrives in conditions where rye grass struggles to survive. water by 144,000 litres/ha”.

Nitrogen fertiliser over time is known to deplete soil carbon thereby reducing the amount of moisture available for plant uptake, the most likely reason for the rapid onset of slow growth when the intervals between rain goes beyond ten days.

Less carbon also means less crumb, or aggregate, in the soil and the likelihood of a hard pan developing, often 7.5cm to 10cm below the surface. Soils in this condition can easily be identified because grass plants will

be growing on the surface, with their crowns proud, and easily removed during grazing.

The twin factors of less moisture retained and shallower rooting can have a marked effect on the length of a summer dry spell and when coupled with grazing intervals of less than a genuine 30 days, even a slightly drier than normal summer can become a genuine ordeal.

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Not having seen animals with facial eczema, and keen to be prepared, I asked farmer colleagues what to look out for and was told I would know when it happened and there was nothing that could be done in advance.

At that stage Gladys Reid’s work with zinc had not been accepted.

In hindsight one of the things I found really interesting was that although the climatic conditions throughout the whole region varied little not all farms were similarly affected.

A large number of stock were affected on some properties, and others such as the one we were on had only one or two animals.

The difference could not be attributed to irrigation, hedges, or trees, as there was no irrigation and all farms had hedges and a smattering of trees.

Daily management would seem to have played an important role in this situation.

Pasture growth was slower than normal for late autumn and we decided to feed silage in order to lengthen the intervals between grazings, which was the only factor easily identified that may have lessened the impact.

Droughts would seem to fit a similar pattern. The word ‘drought’ evokes images of brown land devoid of all feed with skinny an-

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DAIRY

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

33

Dairy Industry Restructuring Amendment Bill passed Provisions to manage Fonterra’s dominant position will continue under changes to the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act.

M

inister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor says the law change means the efficiency and contesta...we are taking a bility provisions of the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001(DIRA) will no longer expire in considered and strategic the South Island at the end of May. The Government will now undertake a approach. comprehensive review of the DIRA and consult fully with the dairy sector.

O’Connor says the review will consider key Damien O’Connor issues facing the dairy industry, including, for Minister of Agriculture example, environmental impact, land use, Fonterra’s obligation to collect milk, and how to achieve the best outcomes for farmers, dominant position in dairy markets, until sufconsumers and the New Zealand economy.

“It was not in the interest of farmers, ficient competition emerged. Its automatdairy processors, consumers, or the wider ic expiry provisions were triggered in 2015, New Zealand economy to let these key DI- when other dairy processors collected more RA provisions expire in the South Island and than 20% of milksolids in the South Island.

Key DIRA provisions to remain in the tinkering with the Act would not answer some of the bigger questions facing the industry,” South Island: Fonterra must accept applications to beO’Connor says.

“By rolling over the Act and committing come a shareholding supplier, except in limourselves to a wide-ranging review we are ited circumstances, and allow shareholding taking a considered and strategic approach suppliers to withdraw from the Cooperative to the changing needs of the dairy industry.’’ in a timely manner.

The Commerce Commission must each A report from the Commerce Commission, published in 2016, found that competition year review the calculation of Fonterra’s farm was not yet sufficient to warrant the removal gate milk price for the dairy season that has just concluded. It must also review Fonterof the DIRA provisions.

“This Government is satisfied that it is ra’s methodology for calculating this price.

Fonterra suppliers are permitted to sell appropriate to retain the existing provisions 20 percent of their season’s milk production while the review is conducted.

“Officials are currently working on the to another processor. terms of reference for the review, and I intend to share these with the New Zealand Electrical Problems or Maintenance? public and the dairy industry in the first half of this year,” O’Connor says.

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34

March 2018 CANTERBURY FARMING

WATER & IRRIGATION

Changes ahead for irrigators With the holiday break and post-election negotiations over, the new government is now settling down to business.

Andrew Curtis ❚❚by Chief Executive, ❚❚IrrigationNZ ❚❚ IrrigationNZ attended a Land and Water Forum meeting with Ministers David Parker and Damian O’Connor and, along with other primary sector partners, met with the Prime Minister in February.

From these sessions we have some indication of the new government’s priorities.

One of their key focuses is on climate change. Of course this has implications for agriculture, especially for dairy farming, but also sheep, cattle and other farming models.

Federated Farmers and other primary sector bodies will be involved in future discussions around what is proposed and how this will affect farmers.

The focus on climate change is likely to create a need for irrigators to look at reducing power usage.

Shifting to gravity based irrigation systems or more power efficient systems is something a number of Canterbury irrigation schemes have been investing in recent years. The power savings pay off over the longer term.

In the future, it’s likely that irrigators will be looking more closely at using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to fund pumping.

The new government’s desire to improve water quality has been clearly stated since the election. In this area, Canterbury is well ahead of other regions and is leading the way.

Farm environment plans provide a tool for farms to record and manage their nutrient discharge, with targets being set requir-

Good data: Soil moisture probes are being used in Ashburton and Selwyn to allow for more precise water application.

‘

In the future, it’s likely that irrigators will be looking more closely at using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to fund pumping.

ing that discharge levels reduce over time.

The introduction of farm environment plans is still in its infancy. We are still working through how these are developed, implemented and used effectively to improve environmental outcomes.

While some benefits are already occurring as a result of the plans being introduced, most of the improvements to waterways which will occur as a result of these changes are still yet to come. But we have a framework in place which will bring future benefits.

Improvements in how we use and apply irrigation also often have associated improvements for nutrient management.

Our irrigation testing programme in Ash-

burton and Selwyn showed that most farmers are now using soil moisture probes.

Having the data to know when and where water is needed allows more precise water application which helps reduce excessive nutrient leaching.

The government also wants to encourage a move towards high value, sustainable land use. We are already seeing a move towards new mixed farming models. This approach has benefits – for example it allows farmers to choose crops which will help reduce nitrogen leaching.

In many of these areas, there is a need for more research on the environmental impacts and benefits of new and existing practices.

Farmers want the same outcomes other New Zealanders want – to have a clean environment and strong communities. More practical tools to help achieve are needed.

We are now looking forward to our IrrigationNZ Conference in Alexandra from 17-19 April. It will feature a showcase of new irrigation technology, as well as a range of international and local speakers talking about the issues irrigators are facing and how we can address these.

To find out more about the conference and register visit www.irrigationnz.co.nz. Hopefully we’ll get some more solutions to the challenges farmers are facing.

CANTERBURY FARMING

WATER & IRRIGATION

Tony Trewinnard ❚ by ❚ Blue Skies Weather

March 2018

35

Rainfall to increase over March

The atmosphere around New Zealand is a bit jumbled up through to the end of February as the ex-tropical cyclone leaves us in its considerable wake.

Recent periods of cold southerly and milder westerly airflow are reflected in the six-week outlooks as, briefly, a break from the “high pressure to the south, low to the north” meme of the last few months.

But, as you might suspect, the break is brief and fleeting, and by early March all indications are that we will return to the westerly-less, humid, north-east airflow dominated patterns of the recent past.

The current La Nina event seems to be slowly decaying, which is to be expected at this time of year. La Nina will remain a strong influence for some months to come.

The direction of the Southern Oscillation over the winter is unclear at present, (again to be expected at this time of the year) as we begin to work through the “predictability barrier” which often leads to inconclusive La Nina/El Nino forecasts in the March to June period.

The significant MJO wave which has been traversing the Asia/Pacific region in the last month is forecast to weaken considerably in the next 7-10 days and probably decay.

It is currently in phase 7, which favours low pressure systems north of New Zealand and southwesterly airflow over the South Island, and is likely to decay there without making it into the next phase.

Putting all this together, what can we expect in the next six weeks? A messy period to the end of the month, rainfall wise that is.

However, there is a trend towards colder temperatures (both colder than in recent times, and also colder than normal), and this will be brought about by an increase in southwesterly airflow over the country.

From early March onwards it’s back to anticyclones passing over or south of New Zealand, and often blocking to the east of the country, while pressures remain low in the sub-tropics and north of New Zealand, with periods of easterly and northeasterly airflow.

Most of March looks to be warmer than usual, and humid, with frequent wet peri-

ods in the North Island, and long dry periods in the south of the South Island. Around the middle of March or just after that, we may see a spell of more unsettled weather over the whole country, probably as a result of another sub-tropical low pressure system passing over us, which may or may not be an ex-cyclone.

For Canterbury specifically, we seem unlikely to see any long dry spells, with rain events fairly frequent till mid-to-late March.

Until the end of February temperatures may be uncharacteristically cool with some cloudy days in the mix.

The first half of March should see at least normal sunshine, and temperatures becoming milder again, and winds often northeasterly on the Plains. Later in March periods of easterly airflow are indicated, not cold, but with increased cloud. Throughout, we expect to see higher humidity levels than usual for the time of year.

Where are we heading for winter, weather-wise?

It’s still a bit too early to be confident, but

with La Nina still likely to be hanging around I would expect the key words for this winter will be cloud, rain, and gloom.

I can’t see temperatures being particularly cold or warm as measured by the daily average, but it will feel cold due to the frequent cloud, rain, and snow.

The colder than normal day time temperatures will be balanced by cloudier, milder nights, with fewer frosts, but that won’t stop it feeling like a chilly winter.

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36

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

WATER & IRRIGATION

Eighteen months, like clockwork

Dr Tony Davoren ❚ with ❚ Hydro Services

After a struggle with developing and current drought in December, January and February, the Southern Field Days still attracted massive crowds.

In an area where irrigation is ‘assured from above’, Southland was struggling to come to grips with little rainfall over the months preceding February.

After two years of planning after the 2016 event the gates opened on the 19th Southern Field Days on 14 February at Waimumu.

The site is now staggeringly large and had bulged to 756 exhibitors – try and get around those in a couple of days.

The weather this field days was magnificent – warm/hot and sunny, a very dry build up and only one threat of rain on Thursday. A stunning three days that included Valentines Day, Crusaders v Highlanders and plenty of dignitaries (including politicians) in attendance.

Just like the South Island Field Days at Kirwee, as an exhibitor one has to send out a big congratulations to the volunteers who put these events together.

I am sure there are and they feel there are aspects not going to plan every day. It is hard to recall anything that didn’t seem like clockwork to us. I hope they had a beer or two on Friday night to reflect on another great event.

It is a little early to know the final gate numbers, but the word was more than 42,000, with a very large crowd on Thursday when a massive crowd caused car parking areas to overflow early afternoon.

On this day about 400 cars had to be diverted to paddocks set aside to for car parking for those just coming for the Highlanders-Crusaders rugby on Thursday night.

For those who know Waimumu (nothing but

the field days site in the area) 8000 turned up to watch the game. We (Crusader supporters) were seriously outnumbered and really needed to stay incognito.

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While the Crusaders were pretty soundly beaten, the second half brought back memories of university days – not pointing the finger but Otago ‘scarfies’ were renown for couch burning (even at Carisbrook) and one or more must have been present.

This time, and fittingly, it was a 4x4 round bale that was set alight in the second half just to reinforce the uniqueness of southern hospitality. The match is a real coup for organisers and adds to the success of the Field Days.

One of my places to visit is the Agri Centre ‘shed’ with 196 exhibitors. Bang in the middle of the field day site (well in the northern western third) this massive covered shed is a great place to get out of the sun (2018), rain and cold (2014) and to wander with a coffee for a break (so long as one can get away from one’s site).

128mm x 100mm It was not all Field Days stuff – one of

our guys was out and about taking ‘dry’ soil moisture measurements to calibrate soil moisture sensors.

His reports from the farms he visited over three days show the drought is biting with covers of 1600-1700kg on the dryland dairy farms visited – “sheep pasture” his comment.

It was little concerning talking to those clients because they were using their winter feed and budgets were taking a hammering.

Even though there was heavy rain two weeks ago and a few splashes since covers hadn’t really lifted.

Even irrigating clients had been doing it tough with irrigation restrictions because of hydraulic connection to rivers like the Mataura and Oreti. Dry spells like these were ‘unique’ to Southland because firstly it started much earlier than ‘usual’ and had persisted for much longer.

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LIVESTOCK

March 2018

37

Rare breeds under the hammer

This month the Canterbury section of the Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand is holding its annual Rare Breeds Auction and Heritage Lifestyle Day. We take a look at the society and what it is trying to achieve.

❚ by Kent caddick As animal breeders have constantly sought to improve their livestock, some of the original breeds have dwindled to low numbers and even died out. In Britain alone over twenty breeds of farm animals have become extinct since 1900.

Worldwide, the rate of loss has been estimated as about one breed per week, so the genetic diversity of livestock is rapidly becoming reduced.

A common breed can become rare and then extinct in a very short time unless someone is caring for it. This has happened to sheep, cattle, goats, pigs, poultry and horses.

In New Zealand there are a number of domestic breeds that are rare both here and overseas.

There are also breeds, such as the Arapawa goats, Kaimanawa horses and Auckland Island pigs, that were deliberately or accidently released into the ‘wild’ and which are now considered to have heritage status.

New Zealand can therefore play a part in the world-wide effort to preserve the world’s livestock diversity.

The Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand, was founded in 1988. The society maintains contact and exchanges publications with similar overseas organisations – the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (UK), the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (ALBC), Rare Breeds Canada, the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia, and FERME

Auction information The canterbury section of the rare Breeds conservation Society of New Zealand’s rare Breeds auction and heritage Lifestyle Day will be held at the Willowbank Wildlife reserve, 60 hussey road, christchurch, on Sunday, March 11.

Entry fees, sales commission, admission charges and catalogue price are used to cover auction expenses with any surplus going to the rare Breeds conservation Society for the conservation of rare breeds of livestock.

Viewing starts from 10am on auction Day, with the Livestock auction beginning at Noon (12pm) and the Poultry auction at 1pm.

For more information go to www.rarebreeds.co.nz.

(France) – and it is a member of Rare Breeds International.

Farmers naturally want to use the most productive, healthy and hardy stock they can, and to produce for the current market – which inevitably changes according to consumer requirements.

For a variety of reasons it is worth retaining the original breeds: They may have been superseded by today’s fashions, but they still represent unique “genetic packages” for use again sometime in the future.

Market fashions change. Lean sheep are now favoured over fat, and goats are now valuable to many farmers who used to shoot them as pests.

Rare breeds often retain desirable characteristics that can be incorporated in new improved breeds of livestock.

Genetic engineering is rapidly revolu-

Rare Breeds Auction and Heritage Lifestyle Day

tionising breeding work but it still needs the appropriate genes on which to draw.

Rare and unusual breeds provide material for research on the evolution of domestic characteristics.

Breeds that have lived in isolation for some time illustrate how animals change when they run wild, and in New Zealand they illustrate aspects of our colonising history.

Sunday 11 March 2018 from 10am.

Poultry and Livestock Auction, Displays, Raffle, Stalls.

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38

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

❚ by rob cochrane

Procurement Manager, ❚ Wool PGG Wrightson Wool ❚

LIVESTOCK

Auctions draw better bidding tone and the system works

Although the market definitely could not be reviewed as being in great shape, there have been signs of a slight recovery as auction prices for crossbred wool types were reasonably stable through late January and into mid- February.

Buyers appeared more interested than they had been for quite some time and auctions drew a far better bidding tone.

Vendor sentiment also appeared more atune to price levels as the majority of auction lots offered during the period were sold on the fall of the hammer and passed-in lots were limited to around 10 percent.

Crossbred fleece prices received a slight boost at the final January auctions, particularly those softer handling wools displaying good character and good washing colour, and remained steady into February.

Poorer colour wools began to feature more towards the middle of February with surprisingly good results achieved and many realised pricing much better than anticipated.

All crossbred lamb’s wool was highly sought after by exporters with substantial premiums paid for those measuring finer than 29 microns in particular. Lamb’s oddments were also in demand, however prices for adult oddment types continued to be varied.

A few mid-micron fleece types were available during January and February, and prices

reflected the ups and downs of the Australian market. Any lines of lamb’s wool commanded very good attention from exporters.

A handful of small lots of merino fleece and second-shear types were offered in Christchurch during the January/February period all achieving extremely good results.

With relatively small volumes coming forward for auction in Australia of late, the market has remained under pressure as stocks of fine wool are obviously low around the globe.

Despite the majority of New Zealand (crossbred) wool types remaining at low levels the wool auction system continues to work well as a method of transfer of ownership.

How the system works • growers send wool to their broker along with a detailed wool specification outlining what each bale contains

• the broker assembles the bales into appropriate lines and weighs, core samples and grab samples each bale before storing the bales in a secure and dry environment • an independent laboratory tests the core sample providing a range of data to send back to the broker • the broker assembles a catalogue showing the grower’s brand, number of bales, wool description, gross greasy wool weight, test data, and clean wool weight • the broker displays the grab sample for exporters to assess prior to auction day • the broker values the grab sample to provide the grower with and estimated auction price and advises the grower of that estimate allowing the grower to apply a reserve price to each of their lines

• the broker provides a venue to hold the auction where the exporters bid for each lot in the catalogue • the highest bidder is invoiced on auction day and agrees to pay for their purchases 11 days later at ‘prompt’ date with cleared funds • the grower is sent an account sales document on auction day outlining the wool sold on the day, and upon prompt date when payments have been received the broker transfers the funds, minus any applicable fees and/ or commissions, to the growers • the exporter instructs the broker as to where their purchases are to be forwarded to before the exporter uplifts the wool from the broker’s store.

Apart from obvious electronic enhancements to transfer data and funds, plus machinery allowing sampling and movement of bales within brokers’ stores, the system has worked this way since the first New Zealand wool auctions held in 1866, without one default payment.

That’s my view.

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39

Nortilus 4:

It’s all about Nuffield

❚ by Solis Norton

eral unusual questions on the usual list of ‘have you ever...?’ bogged me down.

The first, and I quote, ‘are you an unrehabilitated insolvent?’, stumped me.

If I ticked yes, clearly I was in need of quite major rehabilitation, certainly very expensive and a fair means for declining the visa. If I ticked no, my insolvency was confirmed despite the rosy consideration that someone had helped get over it. I ticked ‘no’ and hurried on, but not far.

The next question, and I quote again, was ‘have you ever been judicially declared incompetent?’.

Now I know for a fact that from time to time groups of people have been disappointed in my performance (usually along with myself) but I felt reasonably certain that the opposite was true more than half the time. ‘No’ again I ticked and on to the next one.

‘Are you a member or associate of an organisation advocating social violence, racial hatred utilizing crime and terrorism to pursue its ends?’.

Well this one stopped me dead. I felt at once surprised that anyone would answer yes to such a question and wet behind the ears in realising that this was

The Nuffield Scholarship is afoot, make no mistake. In just a couple of weeks we five Kiwi recipients head overseas on the adventure proper, first stop the international contemporary scholars’ conference in the Netherlands.

Naturally my planning is shifting from orderly process to frantic scrabbling. And so of course the nerves, so calm and collected after the Christmas break, are fraying at the edges and knotting in the middle.

It’s the perfect time to keep in mind grandad’s eternal advice of not sweating the small stuff. Not a moHigh Quality Cattle Yards ment too soon either as I’ll describe for your entertainat the Best Prices. ment my rather naïve endeavours to secure a visa to Unlimited Sizes and South Africa, one of our Nuffield destinations.

Configurations Customised The process involves a 10 to Your Needs. page application form, an interview at the consulate, and a three week period to apply the stamp. It must be quite some stamp.

A dozen different docup 021 025 02499 ments, all signed, dated and e info@premiumstockyards.co.nz stamped too, support the application. w premiumstockyards.co.nz I swung into the application briskly with good early progress. But on page five sev-

a very real concern to the South African authorities.

I guess some people must answer yes because there were five empty lines under this question to write in the exact nature of my association and its aims.

I didn’t notice at the time, but the Nuffield process of stretching the mind and the thinking had begun. This small town dweller in rural New Zealand had already stepped outside his comfort zone, even before setting foot on the first plane.

My panic to make the interview was unfounded. Efforts to correct the supporting documentation worked out surprisingly well and quickly.

Grandad was right about a few things. If you need something done right and quick then do it yourself... and don’t sweat the small stuff. It burns time and energy and ruins the big picture focus. Most of us would do well to reflect on this from time to time.

So I did and the big picture is looking good – the Nuffield adventure is well and truly afoot. Next month I’ll send you some thoughts from the global conference in the Netherlands.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

41

Mighty muscles, bigger brains

❚ by andy Bryenton

You can blame the dinosaurs for a common misconception.

Sure, they ruled the world for millions of years, possessed claws and teeth like carving knives, and make for a very successful cast in that particular series of Jurassic films.

But when it comes to intellect - a certain race of hairy cave-dwellers left them at the starting line, wondering how to tie their shoes. The concept of ‘big and powerful’ equating to ‘lumbering and dull’ got started there, and it’s a hard stereotype to shake.

Back in 1937, when Xaver Fendt was first sketching out tractors in Germany, we didn’t know too much about our primeval lizard ancestors. But then again, there’s no way the mastermind behind Fendt, one of the biggest tractor manufacturers in Europe, could have known that his company would one day produce a tractor that truly matches those giants in size, power and, arguably, in colour.

But the huge, impressively big-footed and unashamedly muscular Fendt Vario 1000 is far from being a big dinosaur. It’s as much

about brains as it is about brawn, and that shows through with each of the little details Fendt’s engineers have added to make this, to use the German, a true ‘meisterwerk’.

That means ‘masterpiece’, and they are not messing around with half metaphors. The figures alone tell the tale when it comes to sheer grunt – 12.4 litres of displacement.

Over 500 horsepower and 2400 newton metres of torque driving a machine which weighs 14,000 kilos with full tanks.

Can this tractor pick up the heaviest implements, in tandem, front and back, and turn a whole field over for planting? No problem. Massive booms, heavy harrows and big PTO requirements? Please, it will barely break a sweat.

Begin with wide, sure-footed tyres, each able to have their pressure controlled from the cab. Spread out all those kilos evenly, no matter what’s hitched on for a day’s work.

Now add in the benefit of Fendt’s VarioDrive drivetrain, which enables toque to be delivered exactly where it’s needed due to some seriously clever hydrualics.

Not enough? Fendt have also implemented an innovative self-leveling front axle to

Sheer grunt: The Germanmade Xaver Fendt Vario 1000 tractor.

smooth out the bumps, and incorporated new software into the Vario’s electronic brain – a GripAssistant program which calculates the optimum ballast and driving speed for every single task.

Also exemplifying the ethos of brains combined with brawn is the sheer efficiency of that big turbo diesel.

Sure, it’s a monster, but it’s also compliant with the latest tier 4 euro emissions standards, and it’s fitted with a reversible cooling fan, angle upward. That’s to blow chaff and grit away from the engine after a long day of work in the field – a little added extra which could only have come from talking to real farmers.

Similarly, you’ll find a compressed air hose in the cabin in order to provide an easy way to give the space a clean out.

Speaking of the cab, three words stand out – cool, comfortable, and connected. With the ability to track, monitor and control every facet of your day’s work in air-conditioned, cushioned comfort, those who work in office jobs will be feeling green with envy.

Fendt’s latest Vario may be huge and powerful, but it’s also sharp and nimble where it counts. With massive power at low revs, it’s able to breeze through even the toughest jobs with a combination of smart technology and sheer muscle.

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Go Further

42

March 2018

CANTERBURY FARMING

U is for for unstoppable

❚ by andy Bryenton

Nowadays the selection of machines built to handle tough working conditions on the farm is as staggering as the veritable united nations of countries producing them... Canada, America, Japan, Korea, India, and China.

The big question is, in an era when ‘made in China’ is stamped on everything from computer components to car parts to the Kiwi flags we fly at sporting matches (really, where did you think they were made?), is it fair to expect the Chinese to produce a top flight UTV side by side?

The answer is yes, and the answer to the next question is, yes they have.

CF Moto is the name behind a range of very economically priced off road machines exploding onto the Australasian scene - with over 400 percent growth over the last few years, you’ll be sure to see one soon.

Not long ago, all the best offroaders around the farm came from Japan. Not long before that, we were still addicted to the Land Rover, and before that, the horse.

The company is a typical mainland China success story, with a gigantic factory and production in the hundreds of thousands providing machines to places even more demanding than New Zealand.

Because, price aside, that’s the major question many people have about vehicles made in the People’s Republic, or indeed in India, or Vietnam, or any number of other up and coming automotive powerhouses. Is it going to be built well? Is it going to be able to take the hard knocks which only a combination of New Zealand terrain, farm work and weather can deliver?

Looking at one CF Moto product, the UForce 500 side by side, it’s easy to see that the designers have gone out of their way to make it tough. After all, this machine will

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face monsoon season in south east Asia as readily as it will lambing season in Taranaki. But there’s also plenty of load space, plenty of power thanks to a single cylinder, four valve, single overhead cam motor that’s designed to go and go with quick and easy maintenance.

There’s also plenty of options, allowing the U500 to be kitted out with all the conveniences of a much more expensive marque.

Fit a winch, a roof, a front screen – but you won’t pay extra for a lockable glove box, tow hitch, cup holders, safety doors or projector headlights, because they’re standard.

Remember a time when cars came with the ‘option’ of a radio or air con? Then the Japanese made all of those extras standard, and upped the global car game? That’s what the tiny price and big bang-for-your-buck factor of the CF Moto U500 may be poised to do for farm vehicles.

Certainly, it’s hard to fault the machine for the money they ask, especially as visions of rural China’s mud, rain, dusty summers and horrible roads seem a little bit too close to home. If it can bet ‘em there, it’s likely to beat ‘em here as well!

Set to kill: cF Moto fitted with an anti-tank missile for army use – another way this UTV is a giant killer.

CANTERBURY FARMING

March 2018

43

❚ with rob cope-Williams

Cottage industries I don’t want to dwell on the fact that things are a bit tight on the farming front, but I was just thinking about the 1980s and early 90s, when invention ruled with respect to topping up incomes.

Yes, I know that most farming couples are kept very busy farming and doing the hours of paper work that is strangling the industry, but there’s nothing like a cottage industry to add funding for a holiday, or the odd luxury.

In the 1980s, such things as the Culverden Fete and many other events provided funds from the passionate gardening the families did as a recreation.

Plus there are now household names on the supermarket shelves that were born in that period.

Many an industry that started in the homestead kitchen has grown well and now are based in commercial kitchens and have a team of people working to keep up supply.

I suppose the modern way to bring in extra funds is the Farmers Markets that have been formed all around the region.

There are some exciting developments looming, a farmers market incorporated within a supermarket here in Christchurch.

The new venture will be a total boom for growers and producers who want to sell their fresh goods to a discerning population.

There is a swing away from preservatives and while supermarket shoppers can enjoy a full range of produce all year round, the increase in those buying from Farmers Markets indicates people prefer produce that is grown or produced here, and they know what has been applied to it.

The other aspect that consumers enjoy is to talk with those who grew or produced the items.

Literally putting a face to what we eat.

The new complex at Upper Riccarton will, I understand, still have a supermarket for some things, but the main emphasis will be the farmers market for day to day fresh produce.

Flower growers on a small area have to go through the auction system unless they are able to organise a one on one deal with a retailer, but their options will suddenly expand with the new venture.

I can imagine that producers will form small co-operatives so the stalls can be manned for the seven days on a roster basis.

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March 2018

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