Plan 365 April 2019 by Farmlands

APRIL 2019

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

NUTRITION

FORAGE AND ARABLE

HORTICULTURE

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Plan 365 is a technical guide aimed at helping shareholders learn about best practice and the latest advancements in rural technology.

NUTRITION

Chook chat Keeping a flock of laying chickens is rapidly increasing in popularity, as it is a rewarding hobby. With this popularity comes more and more questions from beginners, so below are some frequently asked questions from people who are new to keeping chickens. Why have my chickens gone off the lay? It can be quite a problem-solving exercise to work out this one. Here are a few simple things to check: • Are you feeding a high-quality chicken feed – and enough of it? Laying chickens should have “ad lib” (as much and as often as desired) access to a layer-specific feed. This ensures chickens get enough protein, energy, vitamins and minerals to support the demands of egg production. If you are supplementing their diet with lots of added feeds like veggie scraps and/ or mixing wholegrains in with their layer feed, this could be your culprit for depressed egg production. Scale back on the added feeds and ensure they are eating their main meal (layer feed) before their dessert (added treats/scraps).

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for chickens, so make sure they have access to layer feed before they go foraging. • Do your chickens have good access to water and shade? Hot, thirsty chickens will decrease their intake of feed, which decreases egg production. • Are your chickens going through a moult? If so, they will be off the lay, which is quite common when day length decreases as we head into winter. It is hard work growing feathers back and producing an egg a day, so something has to give. There are many other possible reasons, including certain diseases, stress, the list goes on – but check out these potential causes before digging any deeper. Consider if your flock needs worming and minimise contamination of feed by sparrows and vermin – a good feeder is a worthwhile investment. Can I feed leftover NRM Chick Starter Crumble to my laying flock? No, you cannot if you want to eat the eggs. While it may be tempting to get rid of your leftover NRM Chick Starter Crumble by directing it to your

layers, it is not advised because it contains a coccidiostat. A coccidiostat is a must-have in a feed designed for chicks, as it prevents a serious parasitic infection they are susceptible to. However, the coccidiostat has a withholding period for eggs intended for human consumption, so unless you want to dispose of your eggs for 10 days, it is best to avoid it. Why is my flock laying thin-shelled eggs? This is another complex one that tends to be linked to not eating enough layer feed. Run through all the same problem-solving checks from the previous question regarding laying, as well as a few more: • How old is your flock? Older chickens lay thinner-shelled eggs. • Have your chickens got worms? Gut health issues can impact on the absorption of nutrients from the diet and impact on eggshell quality. • Are your nesting boxes adequate? They should have 5cm or more of bedding material for a soft landing. Is there any benefit in feeding some whole wheat to my chickens? Many people like scattering some whole wheat for hens. A little is okay as a treat but wheat is very low in calcium and too much will reduce layer feed intake, which could have an impact on egg production and eggshell quality. Hopefully these frequently asked questions have helped some chicken newbies. If you need a bit more information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist or visit www.nrm.co.nz and use the “Ask an Expert” function to send in a question. Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Nutritionist.

| A Frizzle in moult, putting all her energy into feather production rather than egg-laying.

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| The same Frizzle post-moult.

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NUTRITION

Racehorse feeding practices and prevention of tying up Thoroughbred racing and breeding is the largest equine industry in New Zealand, and along with the Standardbred industry, contributes significantly to the country’s economy. However, around half of all Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses bred don’t make it to a race. While this is mainly due to voluntary trainer decisions associated with poor performance, many are also due to involuntary reasons such as injury or ill health. Much of the data available on these involuntary reasons focusses on musculoskeletal reasons. There is little research available on the number of horses retired due to myopathies such as Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), or “tying up”. RER refers to a specific type of tying up, or muscle cramping, that occurs in response to exercise. Numerous variables including temperament, genetics, and feeding and management practices contribute to the prevalence and severity of the condition – and young female Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds are more frequently affected. Studies have shown that adopting a diet that is low in starch and provides energy through fat and fibre has significant improvements on tying up symptoms. Dietary recommendations are to limit starch sources to less than 20 percent of daily energy and include at least 20 percent of energy requirements as fat for horses in intense work. To discover the prevalence of trainer identified RER, and to more thoroughly

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| There has been little research into Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), or “tying up” in horses.

assess feeding and management practices of racehorses with RER in New Zealand, a data collection study was carried out in 2018. Data was collected via a cross-sectional, face-to-face survey of 100 registered Thoroughbred and Standardbred trainers on the number of horses in full work, number displaying signs of RER, gender and age (≤3 or >3 years) of each horse, amount and type of roughage available, weights of all roughage and concentrates added to a standard racehorse diet, turn out time and size of turn out area for both non-RER and RER horses. The overall crude RER prevalence in New Zealand was 8.4 percent, which is higher than the prevalence found in Thoroughbreds in Australia, the UK and the USA. The study also revealed that a small 7 percent (11/149) of horses displaying signs of RER were provided with dietary starch levels at the recommended less than 20 percent of energy, and

average starch levels as a percentage of energy provided to RER horses was 33.4 percent. More RER horses were provided the recommended amount of fat, with 38 percent (56/149) provided dietary fat levels at the recommended more than or equal to 20 percent of energy. However, total average fat levels as a percentage of energy provided to horses displaying signs of RER was lower than the recommendations at 17.5 percent. While further research in this field is required, the results of this study represent a need for education and a demand for appropriate feeds for RER horses. McMillan Muscle Relieve is a low starch, high fat and fibre racing feed that has been scientifically designed to assist horses with the condition. For assistance with feeding plans for racehorses to avoid tying up, consult with an experienced Equine Nutritionist. Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Equine Nutritionist.

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NUTRITION

PKE-free options grow As animal feeds go, Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) stimulates stronger opinions both for and against than most. PKE has grown to be a major forage replacer and filled a huge nutritional hole in the national dairy herd, ensuring a great many cows have been more fully fed over the last decade or so. Its low price encouraged many farmers into supplementary feeding with by-products rather than conserved forages. Feeding to fill a pasture deficit and increase days in milk has increased efficiency. Body condition scoring cows and feeding accordingly could be especially relevant this year, as condition seems to have surprisingly slipped more than usual following the wet December in some regions. We have actively made people aware of the other by-product and grain alternatives if they prefer not to use PKE. Although not genetically modified, PKE is increasingly being included in the list of prohibited feeds if supplying particular milk processors for premium

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markets. Fonterra’s Fat Evaluation Index is also discouraging its use.

Acid Buf – has been included at the

For those commercial farmers looking not to use PKE, NRM has introduced more PKE-free dairy products in recent years. NRM Dairy Zero PKE Extra, in particular, has struck a chord with dairy farmers looking to select a feed from the NRM standard range whilst avoiding any PKE.

in compound feed. Acid Buf breaks

PKE-free options have also increased for bagged feeds. For instance, NRM Multifeed (formulated to provide a balanced nutritional solution) never contained more than 10 percent PKE but with more and more people looking for PKEfree options, it became guaranteed PKE-free on 1st January 2019.

is introduced to stock. As Acid Buf

Grain increases the energy density of a feed but contains rapidly fermentable carbohydrates, which increase the risk of acidosis when the rumen bugs are not accustomed to grain feeding. To lessen the slightly increased risk associated with removing PKE from the formula, a proven rumen buffer –

recommended rate for sheep and goats down slowly in the rumen and helps neutralise acid produced by the rumen microbes over a longer period than many buffers. In combination with other minerals already included to help buffer rumen pH, Acid Buf will help during the transition process when NRM Multifeed breaks down it also releases highly available calcium and magnesium, which can be absorbed by the animal. As part of the product makeover, the trace minerals and vitamins were also reviewed, which should be good for animal health and vitality. NRM strives to understand customers and deliver the products they require. More products are in the pipeline to meet the changing needs of livestock farmers. For further information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Lead Nutritionist.

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NUTRITION

Selecting the right dog food Figuring out which is the best food for your hardworking dogs can be challenging. Often, it comes down to a simple choice between what is available in your local store and what price you are prepared to pay. The objective, however, should be to select the food that best matches the incredible amount of work your dog performs every day. A look at the packaging will help you to choose the diet that provides the optimum nutrition for strength, stamina and alertness. First and foremost, working dog foods should provide a “complete and balanced” ration in accordance with nutritional guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Depending on where the food is manufactured, a working dog food may also meet standards set out by other associations such as (PFIAA) the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia. Look for these logos on the packaging. These exacting guidelines provide the recommended minimum and maximum levels of 40 different nutrients, including protein, amino acids, fats and vitamins and minerals, as well as the optimal nutrient ratios in many of these areas. Protein and fat are arguably the two most important ingredients. Protein provides key amino acids to help build muscle and aid in muscle recovery. A minimum protein level of 16.5 percent is generally what a non-working dog

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requires for optimal health. For a hardworking dog protein levels beneath 24 percent are probably insufficient to meet their full requirements.

nutrients. Brown rice is one of the best

Likewise with fat, a working dog food should contain at least 10 percent. Fat is the “fuel” that keeps a working dog’s energy topped up. Fat also provides the pathway for the essential fat-soluble vitamins to be absorbed by dogs for optimum health and wellbeing.

confirm that it contains sufficient

The next thing to consider is the quality and bioavailability of the ingredients. Good bioavailability means nutrients can more readily be absorbed into the bloodstream, reducing the amount of nutrients excreted as waste. Generally, a ration with a better nutritional profile will result in fewer, smaller and firmer stools. Meat is a great provider of easily digestible protein and fat. Check where meat is ranked in the ingredients list and then look at what types of “meat” are listed. Are individual meat sources, such as beef or chicken, specifically named or are they grouped together under the generic description of “meat”? Transparency of protein sources is especially important when purchasing food for dogs with sensitivities.

formation of cells and the maintenance

You should then look at what types of grains are included. Cereals can provide a rich source of digestible carbohydrates, supporting sustainable energy for growth and endurance. Rice is easily digested by dogs, therefore like meat it has good bioavailability of

the vitamins, minerals and amino

sources of digestible carbohydrates. The ingredients list on the working dog food packaging should also levels of vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, which are essential for the health and wellbeing of your dog. In particular, working dogs need a rich source of vitamins A and E, zinc and selenium to support the of body systems. B-group vitamins promote metabolic function and energy production, while electrolytes stimulate muscles and nerves which can help to reduce fatigue. Finally does the ration contain a rich source of antioxidants? Antioxidants may assist injury healing, can aid muscle recovery and may boost immunity, therefore playing a vital role in keeping your dog fit and healthy. Having a close look at the food packaging should support your decision on the right working dog food to choose. The new CopRice Working Dog range provides high performance food for every life stage. It is made with real meat, vegetables and brown rice plus acids needed to provide everything your hardworking dogs require for optimal growth, development, peak strength, stamina and alertness. Article supplied by Scott Williams, Nutrition and Technical Services Manager (Companion Animal), CopRice.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Established pastures – a big resource worth protecting It can be easy to overlook perennial weeds in established pastures as we head into late autumn and early winter. A few months down the track, however, you will want all the high quality dry matter you can get for lambing and calving – and that definitely does not include the likes of ragwort, buttercup and thistle. Late autumn provides the perfect chance to get all your paddocks cleaned up and ready to grow good grass come spring. There is a bonus as well – weed-free paddocks last longer. Established pastures comprise at least 90 percent of the typical New Zealand farm. They are effectively your bread and butter, earning the bulk of your annual income, and as such, they deserve to be well taken care of.

| Unsprayed pasture.

| Pasture sprayed with Sprinter 700DS.

The most important first step is to

chemical will not be carried through

identify which problem weeds are

the plant tissue as it should be and

Broadleaf weeds typically targeted in this type of winter spray programme include thistles, ragwort and buttercup.

present on the farm and where.

its effect will be compromised. Do

If you have any questions about

not spray weeds that are frosted,

identifying different weed species,

moisture-stressed or waterlogged.

They are autumn germinating, frost hardy and have the highest economic impact, especially where they have been able to colonise thin or bare areas of pasture.

talk to your Farmlands Technical Field

For cleaning up established pastures over winter, proven herbicide options from Nufarm include Agritone® 750, Relay Super S®, Baton® 800WSG, Sprinter® 700DS and later in the season (when weeds are large and hard to kill), Conquest®. However, Conquest will severely damage clovers and these may need to be re-sown in spring.

and spray timing for your situation.

Here are some handy guidelines around preparation and timing, which will help ensure you get the best return on any winter herbicide investment.

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• Watch the weather forecast!

Officer for assistance before you begin.

Relay Super S and Agritone

Your Technical Field Officer can then

750 need 2 hours to become

also recommend the most appropriate

rainfast, Baton needs 6 hours.

choice of herbicide, application method

• Comply with local regulations for phenoxy herbicide application.

For optimal results:

Some regions (e.g. Northland)

• Spray when there has been full

specify certain time periods

germination of the target weeds. • Graze the paddock before spray

for these products.

(good chemical coverage is

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at

essential for best results). Allow 2 to

your local Farmlands store.

to ensure the weeds are exposed

3 days for growth to freshen, then apply the appropriate herbicide. • Remember that weeds must be actively growing – if they are not, the

®Agritone 750, Baton 800WSG and Conquest are registered trademarks of Nufarm Australia Limited. ®Relay Super S, Sprinter 700DS and are registered trademarks of Nufarm Limited. Article supplied by Nufarm.

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Technology key for successful calf rearing For Ivan Knauf, owner of Wairua Dairies in Hawke’s Bay, technology is crucial to ensure he and his team are running the most efficient operation possible.

“We sell them at 100kg and get

Located at Maraekakaho, Wairua Dairies is a large dairy, dairy support and beef rearing property, which rears up to 1,400 calves a year. The calves are weighed every 10 days from 12 weeks old until they reach 100kg, when they are ready for selling on.

“It also helps us monitor the animal.

Ivan says tracking the growth is extremely important for selling his beef calves at the optimum time.

target weights at calving.

paid for that weight. Buyers don’t want 90kg animals and there are no bonuses for heavier animals, just extra rearing costs,” he explains. We can see if there is a problem happening with their feeding or health.” Ivan says heifer replacements are weighed monthly to monitor growth rates and feeding is adjusted so they reach or exceed industry Because tracking growth is vital for the business, Wairua Dairies uses a range

of technology from Tru-Test. Tru-Test has hardware and software solutions that make weighing and EID easy, which can add value to the bottom line of any operation – as well as ensuring your business meets compliance obligations and has herd traceability. Wairua Dairies uses weighing and auto-drafting in the milking shed and platforms and loadbars in the cattle yards, which all link to the MiHub Livestock Management system. The cloud-based MiHub system helps record, track weight growth and manage herd genetics. Free with the purchase of a Tru-Test 5000 series indicator, MiHub gives a graphical snapshot of animals’ weights and helps identify trends. Wairua Dairies also uses the EID stick reader for NAIT compliance. Ivan says they use it on Bluetooth in the field, so that tag information can be loaded directly to the monitor. “The wand can be used anywhere around the yard or on the property to read an animal’s tag,” he says. “It is efficient, especially when dealing with the numbers and range of stock classes we’re dealing with. For efficiency, having this technology on-board is just absolutely critical.” Tru-Test has recently updated the Data Link app, making it easier for farmers to move EID session data to both MiHub and their NAIT account. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Tru-Test.

| The calves are weighed every 10 days from 12 weeks old until they reach 100kg, when they are ready for selling on.

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DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Putting your trust in the system When it comes to cow health, there is a new tool in the toolkit for Matamata farmers Ivan and Christine Knyvett.

that most of them were on heat due to

In September last year they installed a monitoring system and applied collars to their 315 dairy cows. They admit that 6 months on, they are still learning how to interpret the data gathered by the monitoring system but they say it has been a great investment for the business. The Knyvetts have owned their 108ha property since 1984 and like many in the area, they have grown in cow numbers and farm size by taking opportunities along the way.

more important to the Knyvetts and

The desire for a monitoring system stemmed from an experience with a previous employee. “We had a young guy working for us and he wasn’t confident. He was capable enough but he didn’t believe in himself,” Christine explains. Due to events happening off-farm, Christine was unable to be there with him the whole time, so they needed an extra aid during mating. They tried a few options, including heat patches and a standing heat detector. The concept was great but the results were not – a large amount of false positives and lots of time spent cleaning up patches. This resulted in the decision to invest in a more in-depth monitoring system and the ruminationbased system from Allflex was the preferred option. “It tells a much better picture about what is going on. I can think of an example where the cows did an increased amount of walking due to a power cut one day. A straight pedometer system would have said

drafted them out of the herd and

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abnormal activity,” Christine explains. Heat detection is only one benefit of the system. The health side is much having the ability to monitor each individual cow is the big benefit. “The human eye is far too slow, a sick cow can easily loose herself in the herd and you may not spot her until she starts to become really unwell.” Within days of the data coming through, two cows appeared on the health report. Ivan and Christine were scratching their heads, as the cows visually looked fine. However, they

| The ability to monitor each individual cow is a big benefit.

within 24 hours they were down. “This

to make decisions about who to mate

was a great learning point for us, the

and who to leave until the next day.

system had detected health issues well

Christine was comfortable that they

before we could see it. Going forward,

had made the correct call by trusting

we can be very proactive on treating

the system. This trust has now flowed

them and avoid them going down.”

on to pregnancy testing and after

When the collars were first applied, it

doing the initial 6 week scan, the

took about a week for the Knyvetts to

approach they are taking is to trust

understand the data that was coming

the system in regards to empty cows

through the system. They have a

and then run a check in due course.

blanket rule on their farm, which is

Their mating process is artificial

“whoever gets the cows from the

insemination, bulls and then a follow

paddock, has to pick the cows that are on heat”, so they can have a group in their head and then pull the list from the collars. Initially there was some confusion as to why the list didn’t match the cows that were picked. It then became apparent that because the Knyvetts only inseminated once a day, some cows were just entering their heat and the perfect window for insemination was still to come. This difference gave them the confidence

up with short gestation semen. “We are very happy with the system 6 months in and we are really looking forward to completing a season – and tapping into all the benefits through the spring next season.” For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Allflex.

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HORTICULTURE

Going for gold Kiwifruit growers are continuously striving for the highest quality fruit – and better knowledge on nutrient inputs, combined with current best practice orchard management, will help them on their quest. Grower-driven research currently underway into optimal nutrient inputs for the new Gold3 kiwifruit variety will also contribute to the ongoing viability of the kiwifruit industry, both locally and internationally. Funding from Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Zespri is helping Massey University PhD student Marya Hashmatt research nutrient inputs for producing high quality Gold3 kiwifruit. Fruit dry matter concentration at eating stage is the main indicator of kiwifruit quality, and the research is focused on optimising the balance between vegetative growth and fruit quality. The research is looking at the roles and interaction of nitrogen, potassium and calcium, and how this affects water uptake, fruit dry matter concentration and source-sink relationships. The research involves multi-season field trials at two locations to explore different nutritional inputs for optimal Gold3 productivity. It is thought that the

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application of potassium during fruit developmental stages may increase minerals and photosynthates in fruit.

“The ‘leaky pipes’ need pruning

The research came about when an onorchard brainstorming group identified plant nutrition as a key knowledge gap for optimising inputs and productivity. The group drew attention to the fact that different varieties would most likely require different inputs and that no research had been conducted on the new Gold3 variety.

by mature leaves to the growth

Ballance Agri-Nutrients Horticulture and Arable Specialist, Dusty Hulley, says the research will complement existing best managements practices. “To grow large fruit with high dry matter concentration and maximise return, you need the right balance between vegetative and reproductive growth – and both orchard management and nutritional inputs play a part in achieving this balance,” Dusty says. “Photosynthesising tissues such as mature leaves produce dry matter, while roots, shoots and immature leaves and fruits compete for dry matter.” He points to the “leaky pipes” analogy management practice created by the well-respected kiwifruit pioneer, Mike Muller.

as soon as possible so the vine doesn’t lose dry matter produced of unwanted shoots.” Removing “leaky pipes” involves the following: • Remove unfruited shoots that are not required for next season, making sure the plant is not too crowded. • Remove erect water shoots to two or more buds. These are not required because of their erect growth habit. This will retain a growing point for replacement canes or spur wood. • Shorten any shoots starting to curl and tangle. Outcomes of the research into optimal nutrient inputs for the new Gold3 kiwifruit will be available when the PhD is completed. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Fencing further with less Fencing for sheep and beef farmers can be labour intensive and a large capital investment – and a permanent electric fence is not always seen as a viable option. However, electric fence droppers bring some practical and cost effective savings to fence systems that will enhance farmers’ ability to keep stock where they need to be. Electric fence droppers help to maintain the wire spacing in an electric fence set up. They maintain sufficient tension in the wire to stop even the most determined livestock creating a gap. Electric fence droppers also help take some of the cost out of a system by reducing the number of posts required in a fence line. Electric fence droppers only require a screwdriver to draw them over the fence wire, so are extremely fast to install, saving more precious labour time. They have wire attachment points, which are all electrically isolated by high strength, glass filled polypropylene insulators.

| Electric fence droppers help to maintain the wire spacing in an electric fence set up.

Experienced fencer and Gallagher Key Account Manager, Kevin Marquand, says Gallagher has been working with sheep and beef farmers to create a complete electric fencing system.

“Our Research and Development team went out on-farm and looked at how sheep and beef farmers were setting up their fencing systems and most importantly what they wanted to achieve,” Kevin says. “What they found was many sheep farmers wanted to implement a more intensive rotational grazing system but lacked the fencing infrastructure and saw it being cost prohibitive.”

The simple practicality of Gallagher’s Insulated Line Posts has been enhanced with the release of Electric Fence Droppers, designed to integrate with the line post system, or any five or six wire electric fence structure.

Having recently released the Insulated Line Post, Gallagher sought to enhance this electric fencing system to further reduce capital and labour. The addition of the electric fence droppers achieved this.

Like most Gallagher innovations, the electric fence droppers have come from working closely with farmers, identifying simple solutions to everyday challenges that farmers face.

“Usually with a standard five wire fence you would expect to have a post every 4 metres or so. By adding three droppers between each post you only need one every

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12 metres. This is a significant saving in materials and labour.” Kevin says the droppers are compatible with most multi-wire electric fence systems including steel posts, wood posts and the early Insultimber system. Farmers are finding the Insulated Line Post and Electric Fence Dropper system ideal for installing fence lines in hard to access areas like gullies and riparian strips, due to their light and easily erected design. “The system will also prove popular in areas such as hill country, as no machinery is required to install either the line posts or droppers,” Kevin says. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Gallagher.

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Beware of the beech mast due to hit this autumn Rodent numbers are expected to explode this autumn, with high levels of beech trees flowering and producing large quantities of seeds (mast). Masts are a climate phenomenon triggered by a summer that is warmer than the previous one and 2019 is predicted to be a big season. Beech tree seeds provide a food source for rats and mice and this abundance of food will result in a significant increase in rodent numbers. Stoat numbers are expected to increase too, as rodents are one of their primary food sources. The increased numbers of rodents and stoats places our native wildlife at significant risk. The problem can easily escalate once the beech mast finishes – as a diminishing food source means rodents then become predators, eating birds, lizards, eggs and chicks. Experts are indicating this coming season will see elevated flowering and fruiting in our forests, causing more pressure on our wildlife. There is a need for increased pest control during beech mast and Bell-Booth encourages land owners to form a baiting strategy to help reduce the threat to our wildlife.

| The increased numbers of rodents and stoats places our native wildlife at significant risk.

Controlling rodent numbers with a proactive pest control programme will help to reduce the number of predators on our farms, around bush lines and in other native areas. Follow these basic tips when carrying out your pest control programme to ensure you get maximum benefit at minimum cost: • Choose the right product for the job and seek advice if required. For example, PestOff Rodent Blocks and Pellets applied in bait stations (Dead Rat Café, Dirty Rat Motel or the Departure Lounge) will provide a potent solution to rodent problems. • Anticipate the problem rather than reacting to it. Preventative pest control is always cheaper, easier and more effective than remedial work.

and freshly made, so will provide a single feed, lethal dose. • Follow label directions. This will improve results and minimise the risk to non-target animals. • Replenish baits when they are consumed by pests and offer a generous amount of bait. • Manage pest immigration by establishing and maintaining control buffer zones. • Also use bait stations such as the Dead Rat Café to ensure bait remains fresh and dry. Bait stations also prevent access by non-target species. Controlling the pests that thrive during a beech mast will go a long way towards addressing the problems, allowing land owners to do their part to help our native wildlife flourish in their habitat.

control measure at the same time.

For further information, contact the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

PestOff bait is highly palatable

Article supplied by Bell-Booth.

• Expose all of the pests to the

| PestOff Rodent Blocks and Pellets applied in the Dead Rat Café bait station are a potent solution.

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Put a spring in your step this season Here is a question – what do ancient Greece and 21st century farm workwear have in common? The answer might surprise you. It is a windlass, an apparatus first

The windlass mechanism inspired

is a good fit. That’s what it is designed

the unique innersole found in all

for and that’s what will give you the

Quatro boots, including the original

best performance and comfort.”

Insulated Knee-high Boot, Light

He recommends partnering the

Boot and Insulated Safety Boot.

boot with its own lightweight Quatro

invented by Archimedes of Syracuse

However, as Skellerup National

sock, ergonomically designed and

to lift heavy weights. These days, the

Manager Perry Davis points out, the innersole is not the only

featuring an Elastic Support System

“windlass effect” or the “windlass mechanism” is a theory based on

thing that sets Quatro apart.

this apparatus that is used world-

He says the biggest and most

wide by sports scientists, doctors,

important difference between it and

podiatrists and others who have a close

traditional gumboots is the fit.

interest in the way we walk and run.

“We’ve combined a foot-bed

The windlass mechanism describes

customised for the width and depth

how the plantar fascia supports

of Kiwi feet with a narrow ankle and

the foot during weight-bearing

leg, so that the boot wraps around

activities and provides information

farmers’ feet and ankles more securely.

regarding the biomechanical stresses

This prevents heel slip, improves ankle

placed on the plantar fascia1.

support, helps retain warmth and

and extra protection on top of the foot.

Basically, it is all to do with the way the

makes the boot more comfortable.”

“Together the sock and the boot

heel and toe work together to literally

So, not your traditional “sloppy”

provide the ideal balance between

give us a spring in our step. This is

gumboot fit? “No – and that’s a really

practicality, comfort and warmth.”

something the footwear designers at

important point, which needs to be

Perry says improvements and

Skellerup paid close attention to when

taken into consideration when deciding

development continue with

they started developing the Quatro,

which is the right size Quatro for you,”

the Quatro range to make a

New Zealand’s first insulated gumboot.

Perry explains. “With Quatro, a snug fit

good concept even better.

(ESS) to lock the sock to the foot and stop it from riding down. Merino wool provides natural comfort, softness and warmth while strategically placed ventilation ribs control moisture and temperature. Quatro socks are now constructed for the left and right feet, which gives improved anatomical fit. They also come with double density cushioning

“We’ve just launched the latest member of the family, Quatro Safety Non-Insulated.” Like its predecessors, the newest Quatro is built tough for New Zealand conditions, including sunshine and UV levels that are the harshest in the world. For further information, talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. 1.Bolgla, L. A., and Malone, T. R. (2004). Plantar fasciitis and the windlass mechanism: A biomechanical link to clinical practice. Journal of Athletic Training, 39(1), 77-82. Article supplied by Skellerup. | Figure 1: Anatomy of the plantar fascia and the windlass mechanism.

THE FARMLANDER