Taranaki
FARMING Lifestyles
February 2016 Edition
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
Keeping cows cool this summer
The Taranaki Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned New Zealand company. Phone: 0800 466 793
As the current El Nino weather patterns bring heatwave conditions to many parts of New Zealand, farmers are urged to ensure cows avoid heat stress and to closely monitor the health of their animals.
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DairyNZ animal welfare team manager Chris Leach said the high temperatures and humidity levels also encourage facial eczema. “So farmers are reminded to monitor spore levels in your area, talk to your vet and put in place a prevention plan to suit your farm situation.” “When it comes to high temperatures this summer, put simply a cool cow is a happy cow. Farmers encouraged to ensure cows avoid heat stress “When cows get too hot, and if they can’t cool down by shade — will contribute to increasing the risk or other means, their appetite and feed of heat stress,” said Chris. intake decreases and milk production is “Digesting food and producing milk likely to suffer.” also generates heat in dairy cows, Studies indicate that New Zealand and on hot days this can overload cows can suffer heat stress when their system. temperatures go above 23°C and “High-producing animals tend to eat humidity is high, especially with little or more and are therefore more susceptible no wind. They also show that proactive to heat stress.” prevention of heat stress is more costIf night-time temperatures are effective than trying to manage the also very warm, it can be even more consequences once cows become difficult for cows to cool down, without heat stressed. extra help. Normal respiration rates vary from 15Moving to once-a-day milking, providing 25 breaths per minute. A rate of more shade, or using a sprinkler system in than 30 breaths per minute indicates the dairy yard while the cows wait to be that cows are heat stressed. Really milked are helpful suggestions. hot cows will start to pant and breathe “Although installing sprinklers or through an open mouth, with the tongue shade structures can be costly, they will reduce the impact of high heat hanging out. “All activity such as walking to the on cow comfort and milk production, water trough, walking to and from the especially in hotter parts of the country,” dairy — and even just grazing as normal said Chris.
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
Young farmers ready for regional final by Denise Gunn
With the rounds of district finals completed, eight finalists are putting in the hard yards as they prepare for the Taranaki/Manawatu Young Farmers regional final on March 5.
February 2016
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The competition heats up to find a regional winner in March Photo courtesy of Renae Flett Photography
The finalists will face a variety of challenges during the practical day events followed by dinner and a quiz evening. Last year’s winner, Pete Fitz-Herbert from the Marton Young Farmers Club, will compete again this year. Also securing a spot in the regional final, and from the same club, is sheep and beef farmer James Rogers. Two Taranaki Central Young Farmers Club members, NRM feed representative Roger Dettling and sheep and beef farmer Nick Brown, have earned places in the regionals. The Fitzherbert Young Farmers Club have two qualifying members — sheep and beef farmer Amy Taylor and commercial calf rearer Ray Hirst. Dairy farmer Craig Crampton of the Opiki Young Farmers and Massey
University student, Emma Dangen, of the Massey Young Farmers complete the line-up. The regional final will determine a winner to go forward to the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final. Convenor Chelsea Miller said the practical events, which will take place at Manfeild Park in Feilding from 8am, will include an interview and a range of modules. “We try to give them a real variety of things related to on and off the farm.” The Agri-Spor ts Head-to-Head challenges, which commence at 1.30pm, will see competitors race against each other as they complete a range of set tasks. “There will be eight tasks judged on speed and quality,” she said. “We need a good all-rounder to represent us at the Grand Final.”
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the regional final to watch the young farmers compete. A ‘give-it-a-go’ module will also be available for the public to attempt. Dinner and the evening show, to be held at the Civic Centre in Feilding, will conclude the regional final. AgriKids and TeenAg regional finals will be held in conjunction with the Young Farmer competition. Winners of these events will also represent the region in the Grand Final Contest. The FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final will be held in Timaru from July 7–9.
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
Although Jayne Bright’s horticultural background has covered a range of projects, it is her particular interest in sustainable edible gardening that led to the establishment of Seedsavers Taranaki.
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ayne initially began seed saving when she lived in the United Kingdom. “I had an allotment in London and was introduced to seed saving there,” she said. After immigrating to New Zealand, Jayne worked in Auckland for Gardens4Health. This organisation runs a variety of healthy lifestyle programmes, including helping groups to establish community gardens. She also joined Auckland Seedsavers. When Jayne moved to Taranaki three years ago, she had become passionate about the entire cycle of seed-saving. “The Taranaki Environment Centre in New Plymouth was showing a film about the need for more global seed-saving,” she said. The evening also included the opportunity to swap seeds. “I approached the manager of the Environment Centre expressing an interest in starting a seed savers group
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Jayne Bright of Seedsavers Taranaki in Taranaki and she introduced me to Barbara Hammonds. “Together we established Seedsavers Taranaki in 2012.” With the aim of ensuring food security for the Taranaki region and beyond, as well as encouraging people to save seeds, and to have enough seed for anyone who would like to grow their own
food, Seedsavers Taranaki has grown into a flourishing initiative. “It offers a choice, rather than just having to buy hybrid seeds that cannot be saved. It allows us to learn the ancient/modern process of seed saving and brings people together.” says Jayne. Seedsavers Taranaki has an open seed bank based at the Taranaki
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Environment Centre in New Plymouth. People are able to visit the centre to swap seed. If they don’t have seed to swap, a gold coin donation is appreciated. The seed bank contains five categories of seed. The heritage edible seed comes with a complete history of where the seed originated, when it was harvested, the scientific name, where it was grown in Taranaki and by whom. Potluck edible seed has some of the required information missing such as which variety of seed it is, and the scientific name is unknown. There are also flower, herb and fruit seeds available. Seedsavers Taranaki holds three gatherings a year in February, April and August. “The seed bank is taken to someone’s garden and our seed-savers are emailed an invitation to come along,” said Jayne. At the garden where Seedsavers is hosted, we have a guided tour and enjoy the different ideas of gardening.” The seed bank also roams around Taranaki attending various markets. Anyone can join Seedsavers Taranaki and there is no membership fee. “They can email me their email address to seedsavers.taranaki@gmail. com or phone 06 769 6008, or add it to the Seedsavers list at the Environment Centre,” said Jayne. There are currently 200 people on the group’s email list. Seedsavers Taranaki also has a Facebook page. The group does not receive any funding and is reliant on donations. “It is a community-led project that is growing organically by everyone
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Seedsavers Taranaki has an open seed bank based at the Taranaki Environment Centre in New Plymouth involved,” said Jayne. Once a year, Jayne and Barbara hold an ’Introduction to Seed-saving Workshop’ and produce an annual newsletter. After each gathering, a seed availability catalogue is also produced and emailed to all seed-savers on the email list. Jayne said the short term goal was to start a rare seed bank that is kept separate from the main seed bank. There is now a core group of committed seed-savers who are helping keep particular rare varieties of food plants available. This group met recently to choose which rare seeds are being grown this year to add to the rare seed bank. “Last year, we had a good success of the variety of seeds saved and some of the rare seed has now
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been added to the main seed bank.” Jayne is encouraged by meeting people who are enthusiastic about seed-saving and hearing their stories. She also finds it rewarding to grow donated seed, observe the growth of the seed bank, and to see the huge variety of seed from all over the region now in the seed bank. Plans for more seed banks around Taranaki are currently being discussed. “We are hoping to have seed banks in Urenui, Waitara, Inglewood, Stratford, Okato, Parihaka and Hawera,” said Jayne. “This will add to the diversity of seed that has been adapted to local regions.”
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
All for the birds by Denise Gunn Dawne Morton has always had a fondness for birds but it was an injured hawk, found on an Eketahuna dairy farm 27 years ago, that led her to a path of bird rescue.
Photos by Gail MacNeill
When bird enthusiasts from Manawatu expressed an interest, the Bird Rescue Wanganui/Manawatu Trust was formally established in 1996. Sick and injured birds are now dropped in or collected from Taranaki to Horowhenua, the central plateau area, and across to southern Hawke’s Bay. The group originally took native birds to veterinarians in Wanganui for treatment. However in 2003 the group was contacted by Dr Brett Gartrell at Massey University’s New Zealand Wildlife Health Centre (now Wildbase), offering specialist veterinarian care for the native birds. This was the establishment of a partnership between the wildlife vets and Dawne’s bird rescue operation.
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hortly after nursing the hawk back to health, Dawne went on a course run by a member of the Rapture Association of New Zealand (RANZ). Dawne also went on to become a member of the Bird of Prey Association, learning about banding hawks and their lifestyle. Further training covering avian first aid followed at Massey University in 2003. On approaching local veterinarian clinics in Wanganui with the offer of caring and rehabilitating injured raptors, Dawne found there was a call to care for all type of birds. Several interested individuals assisted Dawne to form a bird rescue group, initially servicing the Whanganui region.
Dawne with a western North Island Brown Kiwi that had been hit by a car
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
A pair of young Tui chicks that had fallen out of the nest
The birds are then returned to Dawne’s base at Turakina for rehabilitation and preparation for release. The number of birds needing care varies depending on the season. Intense storm systems can also force sea birds inland. “Albatross have been found at Halcombe and Taihape, and Gannets up Mount Ruapehu,” said Dawne. “An Australian Barn Owl was found in Waverley one year.” Typically the birds that come have been hit by cars or have flown into windows. On arrival, birds are assessed for injuries and illnesses. Dawne said it is also important that each bird is weighed. “We know what a certain species should weigh and we give them oral fluids, over a 24 hour period, which is based on a percentage of the body weight. “We also put pain relief into that and antibiotics if required.”
With an increasing number of swamps on farmland being drained, native habitat is disappearing. Dawne said hawks are now resorting to nesting in hay paddocks but the chicks are often run over by hay mowers. “Some farmers are now placing electric fences around nests to provide protection from stock and farm machinery.” Wherever possible, birds are released back into the area they were found. Dawne also has access to several lakes on farmland where she can release birds. The property owners are involved in ongoing predator control. She said more areas are needed in Taranaki to release birds. Bird Rescue Wanganui/Manawatu relies on donations and grants to fund caring for the birds. A number of organisations and businesses provide bird food on a fairly regular basis, and courier company Fastway provides transport for the birds to Massey University’s Wildbase. More
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than 1,000 birds now pass through the bird rescue each year. “There are times we are in dire straits and think we can’t continue,” said Dawne. Several groups of volunteers help out which includes veterinary students, international visitors, retirees, and high school students working towards Duke of Edinburgh awards. A fundraising project is currently underway to have a house moved onto the property which will provide accommodation for students and WOOFERS who help out. “We need a new generation of bird rescuers who need to get experience.” Bird rescue is a round-the-clock job. With Kiwis and Moreporks requiring
feeding overnight, Dawne often gets to bed around midnight, only to wake again at daybreak to care for the other birds. Although she finds rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing the birds rewarding, there are plenty of concerns. “It’s a huge job preparing birds for release,” she said. In an effort to reduce the number of wild birds killed and injured each year by flying into windows, Bird Rescue Wanganui/Manawatu sells window decals. “The decals contain a component which reflects ultraviolet sunlight,” said Dawne. “This ultraviolet light is invisible to humans but glows like a stoplight for birds.” The decals are available to purchase through www.birdrescue.co.nz
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This Morepork chick had been caught by a dog and its flight feathers ripped out
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
ADVERTORIAL
Programme to Paradise There is a vast difference between a natural nutrient found in a food or plant and its synthetic counterpart artificially created in a lab. Each new year brings the opportunity to make a New Year’s resolution and if farming is in your blood, the best call you could make for 2016 and into the future is to bring Mother Nature back onto your farm; together with all the wonderful free natural capital she provides for better production, a better environment and a wholesome life, for you and your family. Farming has always been a natural process; you take a natural man, a natural woman, natural animals and if they are ruminant animals you feed them natural grass, on naturally good soil, with plenty of natural sunshine, natural water, natural micro-organisms, natural minerals and natural worms. This is a good natural formula. When you take this brave new step, in my experience, the first good feeling you will have is freedom; freedom from the chemical treadmill. The next good thought will be you and Mother Nature
are working together, for a better future for all. Rather than bombarding your farm with nitrates, phosphate and potentially harmful chemicals, Agrissentials will set you up with multi-mineral, microbial-rich fertilisers, bringing health and vitality back to your soil. Mother Nature’s formula for growing a plant is minerals, microbes, water and sunshine plus you need those 16 essential minerals, to get the job done. Agrissentials have all those minerals in a completely natural form. That means we know they are plant available and thus unlike their synthetic counterparts we know they will be taken up by the plant, which then passes them onto the animal or human, promoting optimum health. The microbes are the first creatures to dine at the mineral table, converting the natural minerals from the rock dust, fish and seaweed, into a plant available
form, wrapping the minerals in humus, so they don’t leach from the soil. The plant roots take up the minerals from the humus when required — humus also holds water for the plant to uptake, ensuring good water retention quality in your soil to help through those dry periods. This is the natural system of mineral release to the plant. It is the ultimate system and is recognised immediately at the cellular level of the plant for uptake and good healthy growth. This system has been operating for 460 million years — it is the tried and true system! When we look at the planet’s natural forests, natural jungles, natural savannahs and the oldest farm in the world, the Serengeti Plains, we see that most of their essential mineral uptake is sourced directly from the atmosphere i.e. 45 percent carbon, as carbon dioxide, 45 percent oxygen, 6 percent hydrogen and 1.5 percent nitrogen all freely available directly and also via microbial activity. All other essential minerals come from animal and bird manures, recycling of vegetation and other mineral sources, such as eroded rock dust. In the natural system, minerals are converted and stored in the organic matter (humus) for uptake, on request. You cannot get a better soil fertility programme than this. For artificial nitrogen/urea junkies, the
atmosphere we live and breathe in is 76 percent natural nitrogen, approximately 33,000 tonnes of it, per hectare. There is no cost factor to this supply of nitrogen. It is made readily available to plants via the micro-organisms and is stored in the organic matter (humus) of the soil, ready for uptake by the plant, on demand. Plus being completely natural it does not adversely affect the environment or your pocket! A farmer we know, who is running two reasonably sized dairy farms and spreading urea, could quite easily purchase a new Haines Hunter 6m runabout with all the bells and whistles including a trailer, every year, just by accessing his nitrogen requirements free, straight out of the atmosphere. How great would that be?! Team Agrissentials wishes everybody throughout NZ a happy and prosperous 2016. Our team is looking to working alongside you this year to ensure your success. Freephone 0800 THE KEY that’s 0800 843 539 today for a FREE INFO PACK to find out how you can reap the benefits from working with nature without compromising on production or you can contact your friendly representative Adrian Rowe on 021 873 304. We’d love to see you at Central Districts Field Days 17 — 19th March, Site 055 — come and say hi!
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
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have extended our warranty on new QS generators, to provide the best backup and support for our customers. The new QS Standby warranty will provide up to 400 hours of cover or a two-year maximum cover period. The new JCB range complements our high quality KAESER German made rotary screw and piston air compressors. Visit Pace Power and Air at the 2016 Central Districts Field Days Site S55-S56, Call 06 759 8014 or visit www.powerair.co.nz
February 2016
Sights on strong wool A new collaboration between The New Zealand Merino Company and the Ministry for Primary Industries have announced aims to deliver premiums for New Zealand’s strong wool sector — a partnership that could see an additional $335 million contribution towards New Zealand’s economy by 2025. “’Wool Unleashed’, or W3, is a new seven-year, $22.1 million Primary Growth Partnership programme led by NZM that will derive greater value from New Zealand’s strong wool,” says Justine Gilliland, Director Investment Programmes at the Ministry for Primary Industries. “This programme aims to deliver long-term economic benefits by securing a premium for New Zealand strong wool, increasing on-shore processing, and lifting the returns of the strong wool sector overall. “The PGP is at the forefront of boosting the value, productivity, profitability and sustainability of our primary industries, and W3 represents these same core values. This programme has the potential to deliver significant benefits and transformation for the strong wool industry to capture value through the eyes of the consumer and respond to the declining profitability and volume trends. “The PGP and those involved are committed to New Zealand’s long term, sustainable economic growth, with MPI and industry committing approximately $746 million in 21 PGP programmes over time.
MPI and NZM have signed a contract so the W3 programme can formally begin. NZM Chief Executive John Brakenridge says W3 will apply NZM’s experience with fine and midmicron wool in establishing contracts with premium brand partners and developing new uses and markets to strong wool. “We’ve already had considerable success in these areas through the New Zealand Sheep Industry Transformation Project, our first PGP programme, which is focussed on fine and mid-micron wool and is due to wrap-up in 2017. “NZSTX was about using product differentiation to generate better grower returns for fine wool fibre, meat and other products, and production science projects in genetics, animal health and forage production. “We’ll be looking to build on our success in NZSTX to date by turning our attention to the strong wool industry and drive increases in profitability across the value chain.” “The expected benefits from the W3 programme will create a strong foundation and path for future growth across the wool sector.”
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
February 2016
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Central Districts Field Days 17–19 March Manfeild Park, Feilding
Countdown to Central Districts Field Days With a crowd of more than 30,000 visitors expected to attend this year’s Central Districts Field Days, organisers are busy putting the final touches to the event. As the largest regional field days in the country, the annual event showcases the latest farming trends, agricultural developments and rural innovation. More than 550 exhibitors and displays are lined-up this year. The jam-packed three-day event includes key attractions including the Rural Lifestyle Pavilion focussing on rural homes and family, the Massey University agricultural pavilion, agricultural machinery demonstrations, vintage tractor and machinery displays, and a great range of food, beverages and entertainment. Event manager Cheryl Riddell said people travel from all over the North Island to check out the latest and
greatest products for their farm. “We have a great line-up of exhibitors and competitors returning. “We call it the best day off the farm all year as farmers do put it on their calendars to come, check out new inventions and make their purchases. “Many of the old favourites are returning along with some new attractions which will appeal to farmers and rural townies alike.” Plenty of crowd favourite competitions will be on site with the National Excavator Championships, the CLASS Harvest Central Tractor Pull competition and the Central Districts Doubles Power Fencing competition. New Zealand’s Got Talent finalist Chelsea
Marriner will be also returning with her dogs, performing two shows daily. For the first time this year, Central Districts Field Days is part of the inaugural Agri Investment Week. This programme of activities and events will focus on collaboration and investment in New Zealand’s agri sector. The week ties together innovation in farming, food production, marketing, investment, research and technology. It also includes the New Zealand Agribusiness Investment Showcase, Sheep Milk New Zealand Conference,
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
C E N T R A L D I S T R I C T S F I E L D DAY S ADVERTORIAL
Stop rust naturally
It’s more than wool which keeps sheep dry. Prolan NZ has enhanced the use of lanolin in sheep’s wool to manufacture industrial lanolin lubricants, corrosion inhibitors and anti-seize greases which stop rust. Often it is a losing battle trying to fight corrosion on valuable farming equipment, whether it develops from manure, dirt, sand or simply long-term storage. In the New Zealand agricultural market Prolan is sprayed on tractors, quad bike and 4WD chassis, harvesters, feeders, chains, conveyors, irrigation spraying equipment, fertiliser spreaders, loaders, trucks and electrical hardware. Once Prolan is sprayed on the underside of quad bikes it slows down deterioration and provides long term protection. Bikes can be waterblasted after use and the Prolan stays on. Many quad bike frames rust out within three years with no protection. More often than not quad bikes are replaced because of corrosion issues,
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while the engine and everything else still runs well. So it is not hard to double the bike’s life and increase its resale value. There are also an increasing number of agricultural fertiliser companies realising the benefits of a coating of Prolan to protect truck and loaders chassis. The significant cost savings to fleet owners are far fewer WOF and COF failures from rust, less downtime on maintenance, fewer part replacements and increased resale values. Visit our site at the Northland Fieldays Site: 282B. Cut out the attached advert and receive a free Prolan Sheep’n-a-Can with any purchase. Or contact us: 0800PROLAN or website www.prolan. co.nz
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES February 2016
Record high for export revenue
13
by Andy Bryenton
Beef and lamb make up a big part of the traditional Kiwi diet — an old fashioned roast taking pride of place on many local tables. Now figures from Beef and Lamb NZ reveal that the rest of the world are also enamoured of our grass-fed goodness, with record export numbers tallied for the start of the 2015–16 season. The tale of the tape tells the story — demand is up across our major trading partners, with a more savvy clientele in North America and Asia enjoying a bite of Kiwi lamb, beef, mutton and veal. And while per-tonne values are down this season, the added boost in volume has contributed to big gains in both markets. American gourmands are still tucking in to Kiwi meat at a level 33% higher than the five year average. While this is a good sign of a healthy demand, the weakening NZ dollar did little to offset a drop in beef’s average value. At the same time, Asian markets were hungry for more, with 31,000 tonnes of beef and veal shipping out between October and December. That’s a 55% increase in shipments and a 7.3% rise in the average per-tonne value — a clear indication that while fears of a slowing economy in China may have played the devil with global financial markets, the emerging middle class of the world’s second largest economy are secure in their desire for top-quality foodstuffs. North Asia also displayed a strong demand for lamb and, along with the European Union, Asian consumers helped push the total lamb export takeup to a record setting $589 million in the October to December quarter. Once
again, the sheer volume of exports to the north Asian region masked a decrease in the average value. Chilled rather than frozen lamb was a better performer during this period — a category which made up more than a quarter of exports. While farm gate prices for lamb and mutton were slightly
weaker this season — due in part to dry conditions and high production numbers, farm gate prices for cattle remained robust. With export volumes up, farmers hope that international demand remains buoyant — while the results of a recent survey give a shot in the arm to the domestic market. Monday
February 15 is national lamb day and survey respondents ranked a nice roast leg of lamb as New Zealand’s favourite dish. It’s hard to argue with roast spuds, mint sauce and all the trimmings — yet another reason that lamb and mutton farmers have reason to feel tentatively confident going into the 2016 stretch.
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
LIFESTYLE BLOCK SERVICES
Protecting waterways
The importance of irrigation Having a good irrigation system can make a big difference to your farm or lifestyle block and can even benefit the wider community. Pastures are more productive when properly irrigated and maintained which means more feed, fewer breakdowns occur, and systems are simpler to manage. Applying the correct amount of water at the right time will allow for maximum growth of the pasture and decrease the likelihood of putting stress on the pastures therefore slowing the growth. It is equally important to make sure that too much water is not being used as this will draw out valuable nutrients which are expensive. Maintaining the irrigation system is important to avoid breakdowns and leaks. Leaks can reduce the operating pressure meaning the system will not apply water evenly, leading to patchy crops. Watering tracks and other non-productive areas wastes water with no returns. For areas and seasons where water is scarce, remember to allow for water restrictions and make a list of the areas that are a priority. Plan ahead so these do not impact too much on production. Of course the person responsible for the irrigation
system must comply with all rules and conditions set by the governing organisations of the water supply such as the regional council or the irrigation scheme. With new demands on water nationally and regionally due to new technology improving the way most farmers use irrigation, being aware of the most water efficient processes is essential and will save both time and money in the long run. From centre pivots to border dyke and rotary boom the system must maximise the amount of dry matter grown whilst minimising the amount of water expended.
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Fencing waterways protects freshwater from nutrients, effluent and sediment by excluding stock and creating a buffer between water and the land.
Fencing will help to maintain and improve water quality and create a habitat for birds and freshwater species. Fencing waterways is a priority under the Sustainable Dairying Water Accord. All stock must be excluded from any permanently flowing rivers, streams, drains and springs, more than a metre wide and 30cm deep by May 2017. All lakes must have all stock permanently excluded by May 2017. Any significant wetlands, as identified in a Regional Plan or Policy Statement, must also have all stock permanently excluded by May 2017. Check with your dairy company to see if you have one on your property. When planning your waterway fencing it needs to be far enough back to allow for movement or flooding of the waterway. Start by mapping your waterways and create a fencing plan. Consider the overall layout of your farm, along with protecting waterways, new fencing can improve grazing management and stock control. The area between the fence and waterway will slow runoff to ensure as much bacteria, phosphorus and sediment as possible is filtered out before entering the waterway. The four main options are: a grass filter strip between fence and waterway
has the additional benefit of being low cost with a small loss of grazing land. It does need weed control, there is no shading of the stream, minimal habitat for bird and aquatic life and there is minimal bank stabilisation without deeper rooted vegetation. Low planting between the fence and waterway gives the benefit of stream bank stability. There is a small loss of grazing land, it helps control weed growth and gives shade and cover for fish and insect life. Weed control is required and there is minimal habitat for birdlife. Full planting between the fence and waterway helps reduce drain maintenance. This is an attractive asset for your farm, provides shade and keeps water cool and it increases habitat for birds. It is a higher cost and a larger loss of grazing land. This option needs weed control for at least two to three years and may require animal pest control. The fourth option is extending the fenced area to include seeps, wetlands, swamps and springs. This reduces stock losses and provides habitat for bird life. It may result in loss of grazing land, needs stringent weed control and is a higher cost if planting is required. For more information go to www. dairynz.co.nz.
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
February 2016
15
Be my Guest Bill Guest Farmers of New Zealand Membership Services: 09 439 5219 • 09 430 3758 www.farmersofnewzealand.com Email: newzealandfarmers@xtra.co.nz
A disaster in the making? Into the second month of 2016 and we continue to see the global slide in dairy auction prices. Whole milk powder has dropped 10.4 per cent in the last three auctions, down to US$1,952 per tonne. This has been compounded by AMF hydrous milk fat dipping a steep 6.4 per cent to US$3,486 per tonne. Fonterra’s monthly advance payment of $3.15 with the season finishing on May 31, means that a 25 per cent sharemilker is faced with an income of just 78 cents per kilo of milk solids. And that is disastrous. On a wider scale we could now be seeing a major change in world trading power with oil dropping further and further per barrel. The price of diesel in New Zealand is now down to levels not seen for many years. We see China forging new trade partnerships with Iran, with both countries agreeing to build a new railway link between them, restoring for trade the legendary Silk Route of history. China is cooperating with Iran on nuclear energy and investing in new nuclear plants in the UK. China has also signed more than a dozen trade agreements with Iran and economic commentators predict that Iran will work and trade with independent countries. This could suit New Zealand.
While America and Europe are continuing with their trade embargoes against Russia and while Europe is plagued with migrant problems, Russia and China are cooperating quietly, setting up trade agreements with not only the middle eastern countries, but Africa as well. I believe we are seeing a major shift with many countries seeking to avoid western bloc meddling in their affairs. The Gulf States are seeking strategic relations with Russia and China. Russia claims a 4% annual growth in agriculture production. Russia and China are carrying out large joint ventures such as construction of huge dairy farms. China’s underlying strategy is that cooperation is the only way to find peace. New Zealand’s fortunes may also gain from this new trade thinking. On a wider horizon, New Zealand’s exports may also depend on the outcome of the American elections later this year and Europe and America coming to the
realisation that the world economies are so intertwined that trade embargoes are
not an option to force desired changes in another government’s policies.
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February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
DAIRY
Hoof Print with Fred Hoekstra
HOOF TRIMMING SERVICES, EQUIPMENT & TRAINING
Aiming for a cow to stand correctly Last month I was talking about the importance of preventative hoof trimming. This month I would like to go through the three steps of preventative hoof trimming, also known as functional hoof trimming.
EITHER WAY IT’S 20K
MIND yOur SPeeD arOuND SCHOOL buSeS
The aim is to have the cow standing correctly on the ground. If the toe is too long the cow will lean back on her heel. The claws also need to be flat to give more stability, especially the inner claw, as once the hoof is trimmed correctly, the weight will be distributed evenly across both claws. Yet many inner claws are concaved and will ‘fall over’. I often use the analogy of ladies who walk on high heels. Some of those heels are as thin as my little finger. How come they can still walk in those shoes and not fall over? Because they have the stability in the toe, it is just the same with our cows. The toe needs to be flat for stability, the heel gives height. Therefore we want both claws to be the same height in order to distribute the weight of the cow equally over the two claws. Step one: We start on the inner claw. This is the smallest of the two claws
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and the closest in shape and size to what we want to achieve. Once we have trimmed the inner claw we use it as an example for the outer claw to make it the same. The length of the claw is crucial. It needs to be 7.5cm in length. A small cow can be slightly shorter but you would be best to stick with the 7.5cm. Once you have cut the claw at the right length, the thickness of the cut is the thickness of the sole on the toe part of that claw. The toe needs to be 7mm thick but the heel needs to be left as high as possible. The more you take off the heel area on the inner claw the more you will have to take off the outer claw to match the inner claw later. Step two: Once you have finished the inner claw you can do the same on the outer claw — cut the claw to 7.5 cm and make the toe 7mm thick. This time you need to trim the whole claw down to the same height as the inner claw.
Make sure the claws are flat. If the claw is uneven the cow will feel like she is walking on a rocking horse. Now that the claws are balanced, they will bear the weight evenly across both claws. Step three: All we need to do now is scallop out the inside of the claw, being careful not to go too far forward. And that is what preventative hoof trimming is about. Every cow should be trimmed in this way whether she is lame or not. For lame cows there are another two steps in the process but only after those three steps have been completed. Learning to trim like this really should be done under supervision of a tutor. If you are keen to get better at trimming just give us a call on 0800 833 463 to find out when our next training courses are or visit our website www. veehof.co.nz.
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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
February 2016
LIVESTOCK
17
Soil Matters with Peter Burton How magnesium deficiencies can be sorted Some things change over time, and others don’t, with one certainty being the daily demand for magnesium by dairy cows, particularly prior to calving. Magnesium concentrations decline in periods of wet, cold weather. Animals may eat less and, if another source of magnesium is not available, problems can still arise. The most effective supplement is high quality meadow hay harvested from land that also receives an annual application of dolomite. Hay contains the fibre essential for good rumen function, as well as useful energy and oils contained in the seed. As one farmer recently stated, “No matter how good the salad is, it’s great to have some bread and pastry.” And where hay is made available, animals only eat sufficient to meet their requirements at that time. Another reason for the effectiveness of dolomite spread at 220kg/ha in autumn is the calcium that is also applied. Calcium/magnesium related metabolics are nearly always the result of an imbalance of the two elements, and because dolomite contains both in the ratio required by grasses its effect is extraordinary. There is also the obvious advantage of receiving magnesium in every mouthful of feed rather than relying on it being provided via the water system, or as dust on the leaf of a plant. As Professor Tom Walker wrote, “It makes good sense to me to correct animal deficiencies through the soil and the plant.”
STOP MEANS STOP! DON’T BREAK THE LAW
When bulk deliveries of dolomite direct to farm started twenty-six years ago, most went to what were large herds at the time, those of over three hundred cows, as even on highly magnesium deficient country a single autumn application over the whole property markedly reduced the incidence of problems, reducing the reliance on variable intakes from dusting or water in troughs. A further advantage of dolomite is the pH or ‘liming’ effect. Dolomite contains 11.5% magnesium and 24% calcium, and has a slightly higher liming effect than the same quantity of lime. 28 tonnes of dolomite has the liming effect of approximately 30 tonnes of high quality agricultural lime. It is available throughout the country and, if not already in stock at the major companies, it can be delivered in whatever quantity is required within a matter of days. It may be added to a non-nitrogen fertiliser mix or spread separately with
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a typical truck and trailer load sufficient for 127ha. There are those that state that dolomite is expensive. When higher production and less deaths are factored in, dolomite is one of the few fertiliser products that provides an almost immediate financial benefit. However the most satisfying aspect may be the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your valuable animals are receiving the benefits from the most effective magnesium fertiliser available and which is locally sourced. For more information call Peter on 0800 4Dolomite, 0800 436 566.
r
Without adequate daily intake of magnesium a wide range of health problems occur — at one end of the scale lower milk solid production, at the other end unnecessary deaths. The factor most mentioned, however, is the time wasted in spring dealing with sick animals, and the sense of frustration that arises from having followed best advice, and yet the problems persist. There are, however, a growing number of farmers for whom these issues simply don’t exist. For them an animal requiring treatment is worthy of note because it’s a rare occurrence, and they operate properties where Golden Bay dolomite is applied once a year, usually in autumn. Although it is true that older animals, particularly if they are a Jersey or have a Jersey background, are more likely to suffer, our experience is that even purebred Jersey herds on such pasture have a similarly low incidence of metabolic disorders in spring. Weather conditions also play a major role in calcium/magnesium related problems. Leaf magnesium concentrations vary, being highest in periods of direct sunlight. At these times the leaf content of pasture grasses may be as high as 0.25%, and animals fed well on this feed are receiving sufficient magnesium each day.
Dose rates *Dairy Cows 3mls per 50kg live weight *Beef Cattle 3mls per 50kg live weight *Ewes – 3mls per 50kg live weight Withholding Periods Meat- 7 days following last treatment. Milk- Nil
18
February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
ADVERTORIAL
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budget preparation to commissioning and ongoing maintenance requirements. We supply a comprehensive range of services including maintenance, installation, construction, fault finding, inspection and commissioning. Safety testing is also available on appliances, cables, cords and other electrical equipment to ensure they are in good condition and safe for use. Our staff can repair domestic appliances and industrial equipment. Our technicians are able to repair electrical, automation, instrumentation installations and systems. We are also qualified in low and high voltage
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equipment and associated cabling, house wiring, cowshed junction boxes and cabling, data networks, cameras and much more. There is a 24-hour service to provide breakdown and preventative maintenance of all electrical, networks, automation and instrumentation equipment. We can also help with
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www.gatewaydataservices.com www.smartfarmsystems.co.nz
Phone 0508 476 278
YOUR ELECTRICAL PROVIDER OF CHOICE FARMING | DOMESTIC | COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL | NETWORK SERVICES Nelson Street Hawera | P: 06 278 2020 or 0800 311 111 E: info@greaves.co.nz | W: www.greaves.co.nz
WSMPP Tertiary Level
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
RURAL WHEELS
NZ Wide Service
0800 33 33 98
by Andy Bryenton
After what has been a stellar year for new vehicle sales the figures are in, and the motoring public have voted both with their approval and with their wallets to choose the top machines of 2015.
WE PAY CASH!! FOR TRUCKS MOTOR HOMES
VANS 4X4
UTES EVEN CARS
Is Your Truck Surplus To Requirement Fleet Upgrade COF Issues Not Running then you have what we want!!
0800 33 33 98
The Ford Ranger — winning again in 2015, both in accolades and sales figures
class. That means more Rangers took to the highway than any other kind of car, van, truck or motorcycle last year — toppling the long term favourite, the Toyota Corolla. Opponents of the big blue juggernaut which is Ford’s flagship ute must be asking themselves how the runaway
DO YOU WANT TO
Grow
YOUR BUSINESS?
19
NZ SURPLUS TRUCKS
Automotive excellence That popular forum of automotive excellence, the New Zealand Automobile Association Car of the Year awards, has turned up some interesting trends, with its top picks going to a few bold choices. Ahead of the pack and taking out the crown of top car for the past year is the diminutive, electrically powered BMW i3 — an indication that the reign of internal combustion is being challenged by new technologies. It’s all petrol and diesel in the rest of the order though, with some surprises in store. Hyundai delivered a one-two blow, with their Tucson and Santa Fe SUVs scooping back to back small and large off-roader accolades. The new Mazda MX5 was a lock for best sports car. And the prestigious luxury car category went not to a Teutonic or American marque, but to the Hyundai Genesis. The statistics from the forecourts of New Zealand tell another story though — one which is borne out by another year at the top of the AA’s polls for the evergreen Ford Ranger. The big ute with the four-year winning streak has not only cinched the title of best utility again for 2015 — it’s also been the best selling vehicle of any
February 2016
success of the Ranger can ever be superseded. With a cosmetic re-design and new features for 2016, the Ranger continues to go from strength to strength, and figures are sure to look rosy for the new year coming into Field Days. Can the feisty Ford make it five in a row this year? Only time will tell.
• • • • • •
OPEN 24/7
COF REPAIRS ON TRUCKS TRACTOR REPAIRS HYDRAULIC HOSES & PUMPS ONSITE WELDING GENERATORS DIESEL ENGINE SERVICING & REPAIRS
86 Clemow Rd, New Plymouth 4312 Ph: 06 758 2322 E: dieseltorque@xtra.co.nz
WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU! Advertising that WORKS FOR YOU
Taranaki
FARMING Lifestyles
0800 466 793 email info@nsmm.co.nz
Taranaki Rural Marketplace
TARANAKI FARMING CLASSIFIEDS
Stratford Auto Electrical
Animal Health Products
Computer Diagnostics Alternators & Starters Competitive Prices Air Conditioning & Battery Specialists 144 Broadway North Ph: 06 765 5824 Mob: 027 270 7368
Phone 0800 466 793 HIGH CELL Count? Apple Cider Vinegar, Garlic & Manuka Honey 20L $49.95, 200L $450 or 1000L $2,000 +GST with free delivery. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. blacktypeminerals.co.nz.
PREVENT FIRES
Check your machinery today. Nests are a major cause of tractor & machinery fires.
20
February 2016
TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES
Retailer of Rural Piping and Farm Supplies
0800 RURAL DIRECT
FREE DELIVERY ORDERS OVER $1000 February 2016
Maxi HiFlo Drain
LDPE water pipe
Twin Wall available punched & unpunched
Rural Nominal Bore Pipe
New Product
00m 110mm x 1
$
Combining corrugated outer wall with a smooth inner wall for better flow performance
.00
425
160mm available February 2016
130 116 94 72 65 50
15mm 20mm 25mm 32mm 40mm 50mm
$ per 100m
$ 73 $141 $182 $223 $264 $346
Outside diameter
6m Price
25mm 32mm 40mm 50mm 63mm
$ 95.00 $135.00 $240.00 $305.00 $425.00
$ per 100m
$127 $159 $216 $325 $495
$248 $310 $421 $634 $965
EFFLUENT pipe
DRAG hose
8 BAR RATED - SUITS CAMLOCKS
90mm 110mm
141.00
$ per 200m
Other pressure ratings also available Suits compression and electrofusion fittings
$ 6.87 per metre $ 8.90 per metre $11.68 per metre
$
MDPE pressure pipe p
Joiners and custom fittings available
75mm
20mm x 100m 116PSI
9 Bar Rural Pressure Pipe
Recycled HDPE Culvert Pipe
200mm 250mm 315mm 375mm 450mm
Pressure rating (PSI)
Anka & Hansen fittings available Available 200m coils
ENVIRO CULVERT pipe Diameter
ID nominal bore
LDPE IRRIGATOR DRAG HOSE 90mm
$8
Hard-wearing LDPE suits AG camlocks
.90
63mm x 50m
per metre
63mm x 100m
Suitable for above ground use. Available 50m and 100m
75mm x 50m
199.00 $ 389.00 $ 299.00 $
MAXI culvert Twinwall Culvert Pipe
SIZE NOMINAL ID
100mm 150mm 225mm 300mm 375mm 450mm 525mm 600mm 750mm
6M PRICE
$ 30 $ 65 $ 159 $ 275 $ 367 $ 525 $ 585 $ 788 $1100
3M PRICE
$95 $165 $220 $315 $378 $473 $663
TARANAKI / WHANGANUI
525mm x 6m
$
.00
585
Incorporating the strength of corrugated Ma outer shell with the smooth de in n ew inner wall to optimise hydraulics Ze ala nd Full range of fittings available Rubber ring seals available for water tight joins
83 Wallscourt Place Normandy Phone (06) 272 8187 Fax (06) 272 8188 Email taranaki@ruraldirect.net.nz
MANAWATU / HAWKES BAY
77728 State Highway 2 Dannervirke Phone (06) 374 8971 Fax (06) 374 8971 Email manawatu@ruraldirect.net.nz
All items in this advertisement are while stocks last. Phone Rural Direct for conditions of delivery. ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST.