Stop BVD in its tracks.

industry, including working as an artificial breeding technician, managing artificial breeding facilities and working in sales and herd testing.

“What I love about the job most is the collective goal we’re all working towards, which is getting the best cows on the ground for the next generation for farmers,” Carne says.

She will have her hands full this coming mating season with about 150 CRV AB technicians and their loaders to manage across the country.

With 3.94 million cows artificially inseminated each year in NZ, the dairy industry is crying out for more technicians.

Attracting new recruits will be a priority for Carne, alongside organising her technicians’ runs and managing any challenges that crop up during the season.

“There is always a need for more technicians in the industry. AB techs are renumerated well, but in my experience, the part people end up loving most is meeting the farmers and working with them. It certainly is a special industry to be in.”

While Carne has been busy learning the ropes at CRV, attending fieldays and travelling to the South Island for AB training schools, her key goal for the season is making sure her technicians are wellresourced and supported. n

A BVD outbreak could cause:

• Decreased milk production

• Poor conception rates

• Persistently infected calves

• Abortions, mummies, and stillbirths

The most devastating impacts of BVD are on pregnant cattle and their unborn calves, so protecting heifers and cows from infection during mating and gestation is critical. Protect the health of your herd by keeping your herd BVD free with Ultravac BVD®. A premium foetal protection vaccine proven in New Zealand.1 See your vet today.

Fonterra