Waikato Farming Lifestyle October 2021 by Integrity Community Media

October 2021 edition

A taste of Kuratau Pages 8–9

Zero-carbon study ranks Kiwi farms best

Establishing the blue

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OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

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OctOber 2021

Zero-carbon study ranks Kiwi farms best by Andy Bryenton

A common and depressing narrative in the past decade has been to paint farmers as climate change villains, justifying the kind of over-regulation, which has caused protests and outright rebellion in the sector.

New Zealand’s agricultural sector has received a world-leading report card for preparedness in reducing climate-harming emissions

However, a new study commissioned by multinational business advisory giant KPMG ranks New Zealand’s rural sector as the best in the world for preparedness to achieve zero carbon emissions. That’s before disputed calculations regarding cyclical, ruminant-based methane emissions are factored in. “The government and our food and natural fibre product sectors in New Zealand have entered into a climate action partnership, He Waka Eke Noa (we are all in this together), focussed on reducing emissions in a sustainable way,” said Ian Proudfoot, KPMG’s Global Head of Agribusiness, New Zealand. “The partnership has created the opportunity for the industry to be integrally involved in designing a pathway to achieving the desired zero-carbon outcome rather than the

traditional approach of the government taking regulatory actions in response to current performance.” While the agricultural and forestry sectors performed well in the study, other factors brought New Zealand down to position nine overall, beaten out by nations like top-placed Norway, and other prosperous northern European countries Germany and Denmark. The report’s authors admit that these nations have an advantage in sectors like energy generation, heating, and manufacturing as they have more money to plough into ecological initiatives. New Zealand presents tricky problems for advancements such as deploying an electric vehicle fleet, for example, due to the small population and long distances between small towns. It’s also politically unable to engage with next-generation

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nuclear power to reduce coal and gas use in electricity generation. That has placed a large burden on the agricultural sector to reduce their percentage of emissions, currently more than half of the recorded total. The good news here, however, is that two factors of note are not part of the conventional greenhouse gas equation. Firstly, large areas of green, oxygenproducing, carbon-sequestering foliage on farms are not counted toward the nation’s total. Secondly, ruminant methane is by no means the same as industrial methane, as it’s locked in a biological cycle. However, it is currently recorded in the same way as non-biological methane emissions. If these errors in calculation are changed, the rural sector is a lot closer to carbon zero, and New Zealand may outstrip its northern neighbours.

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OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

ESTABLISHING

THE BLUE BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

Morrinsville Belgian Blue breeder Cees van Baar has selected white Belgian Blue bulls from the Belgian herd book to help establish the KiwiBlue™ breed across the country.. PART TWO

“W

e have progressed from an animal with calving difficulties to an easy calving, short gestation breed that benefits the New Zealand dairy farmer,” says Cees. “Morrinsville born Belgian Blue animals are at the base of the new breed KiwiBlue™. Samen NZ, have in partnership with Sir Lockwood Smith from Northland, developed an exclusive partnership to produce KiwiBlue™ genetics specially selected for the New Zealand and international dairy industry.” Sir Lockwood Smith has been working with Belgian Blue for decades. “We are very excited to be working with someone as passionate as us about the breed. Sir Lockwood has New Zealand’s biggest herd, and we have

The Belgian Blue is known for the speckled type colouring markings

signed an exclusive agreement to use his top females over our top bull and have trademarked the name KiwiBlue™. “His stud, Woodleigh Belgian Blues, has selected double muscle animals, which calve naturally and perform very well in pasture-based beef production. “They are unique because almost all the animals at the Woodleigh stud are homozygous polled. Not many Belgian Blue animals around the world carry that gene. “Laws against dehorning cattle have already been introduced in Germany, and we can see good growth opportunities for our Polled KiwiBlue™ genetics in other countries. “The partnership will enable us to develop easy calving, short gestation, homozygous polled, double-muscled bulls, which will colour mark and breed

NEW BUILD

fast-growing beef animals under New Zealand conditions. “Both heifers and bulls or steers are suitable for rearing and will significantly reduce the number of bobby calves. “From Denmark, we have selected bulls that are predominantly used over Jersey cows. Because of the double muscle, we can breed a great beef calf out of a tiny Jersey cow, and the same goes for New Zealand crossbred cows.” The demand for Belgian Blue calves has grown in popularity since Cees started to promote the breed. The KiwiBlue™ calves are being born this year. “To assist farmers to find a market for their calves, we have employed dairy beef coordinator Trudy Bensted. “Trudy Bensted is a self-employed calf rearer. She is extremely passionate about

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seeing rearers invest in a breed with more proven progeny that holds a good saleable value. “Trudy has managed to place thousands of calves nationwide with inquiries coming in from across New Zealand. She collects data about birth weight, gestation length and growth rates for the blue calves. “Early slaughter data is looking very promising with exceptionally high dressing out percentages due to the double muscle and the fact Belgian Blues are fine-boned and have smaller internal organs. “It is a bit like double-breasted chicken. They have a very good feed conversion and grow a lot of meat in the right spots. Because the animals reach slaughter weights at a young age, the meat produced is a very young tender meat.

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WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

Sir Lockwood Smith has been involved with the Belgian Blue cattle for many years

“We are currently killing animals between 15 and 22 months, meaning they don’t need to be fed through a second winter.” Trudy helps farmers make informed decisions on the breed. “I started three years ago connecting good quality genetics with calf rearers and finishers,” says Trudy. “I am a calf rearer and did a project during the Kellogg’s Rural Leadership programme based on reducing bobby calves and inspiring profitable beef. “I found we have really great genetics that we can use across dairy farms. Over the years, the dairy industry has lost trust with finishers, due to a strong focus on short

gestation and calving ease, with the beef no longer meeting a consistent beef quality. “We are seeing gestations from 274– 277 with our short gestation Belgian Blues and very minimal calving issues. Our clients are thrilled with the breed. Some farmers have been sceptical and ordered 30 straws, and the following year, 300. Results are speaking for themselves once the calves arrive. “We have people not wanting certain breeds as they don’t get the results they need. I help people look into what beef they are introducing to their herds. Among the breeds is the Belgian Blue, as it is amazing.

OctOber 2021

Trudy Bensted with one of the future KiwiBlue™ bulls that will be a part of the breeding programme at the head office in Morrinsville

“I am seeing more integration happening with dairy farmers running beef. It makes me happy seeing profitable solutions come back to our farmers, calf rearers and finishers while building the trust of the breed that is profitable for everyone so we don’t have a waste product.”

“We are seeing really good calving results and have clients happy that are selling their calves with no problems. “We have enough data now on kill out that I am focussing on the end of the supply chain and starting to collaborate more so with supplying restaurants and supermarket firms across New Zealand and internationally.

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October 2021 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

THANKING RESCUE CHOPPERS BY ANN VAN ENGELEN Fay Selby-Law never expected to have an encounter with the rescue helicopter staff when she climbed Tauhara Mountain with her daughter Mahi in October last year.

“M

y dad was a stock agent and worked for Dalgety’s, and I grew up in Taihape with farming being a big part of my life,” says Fay. “With the world changing, my family have found we are now the tourists of New Zealand and went to Lake Taupō for the school holidays. My daughter Mahi and I decided to walk up the mountain. “It was a gloriously beautiful day, and the climb was sensational. You go up the middle through a tree canopy and come out on top with an amazing 360-degree view. “We were hot, sweaty and excited at how awesome it was. On the way down, we stopped at a stream for a drink of water. I had a knee replacement three years ago and normally walk behind other people in case I slip, but this time, without thinking, I went down first.” Fay slipped on the steep gradient, and that split second was all it took for the adventure to drastically change. “My ankle snapped, and the walk was over. I was also near the edge and could have slid straight over the cliff. Mahi was phoning for help and said she would

carry me down on her back if necessary when a policeman named Mike started approaching us. He was on a walk and worked in the local rescue squad. “Emergency services got our coordinates from Mahi’s phone and were going to send an ambulance, but Mike said to send a helicopter.” Mike continued down the mountain, arranging the rescue, leaving his weight pack behind for a prop to prevent Fay from sliding further down the terrain. “I was shivering in my singlet and shorts as shock set in, so Mahi gave me her singlet, and two ladies going down the mountain gave me a merino top and shirt. “Mike reappeared with his brother and reassured me that a rescue helicopter was coming. I thought a chopper couldn’t work as we were under the canopy of trees, and it couldn’t land. Very soon, we could hear the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter circling the mountain. “Another man appeared who had worked in Australia directing helicopters. He helped direct the helicopter while everyone gave trees around us a vigorous shake to show them where we were.

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“People also broke branches to give the intensive care paramedic access as he was winched down from above. What joy when I saw him coming to my aid. “Continuing an incredible sequence of events, a nurse and doctor had also appeared on the scene. They assisted the paramedic as he administered pain relief, splintered the break and prepared me to be winched up to the chopper. “We were linked together, and I thought we can’t do this, and then we

were moving up above the canopy under the hovering aircraft. I was amazed at the view of the sun setting on the other side of Lake Taupō. It was an incredible sight. “Suddenly, I was at the edge of the chopper, and the crew were waving me in and off we went. It was incredible — they all know each other’s job. All my doubts about a helicopter rescue were that they can’t do this and they can’t do that, but of course, they could.

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Fay Selby-Law never expected to need the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter the day she walked Mount Tauhara with her daughter Mahi

“The crew are so skilled and experienced. We are immensely lucky to have the rescue helicopter services.” Fay had surgery on her shredded ligaments and tendons, and a pin and plate were inserted into her ankle at Rotorua Hospital. “I come from a health background and did everything the doctors told me to do for recovery. While I have pins, plates and screws, I am now back to living a normal life and put it all down to the fantastic chopper rescue as had I been carried down the mountain, it would be a different story. “Just the bumping of going down the mountain would have damaged the ankle

more. The whole chopper recovery took 20 minutes, and that was the key. “Mahi and I intend on climbing Tauhara Mountain again in the near future.” New Zealand’s largest rescue helicopter fleet servicing the Central North Island includes the TECT, Greenlea and the Palmerston North and Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopters. In July, the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter alone was tasked to 86 missions. Sixteen were rescues with six located in rural or remote areas. Missions like these would not be possible if it weren’t for the generous donations from the public. To keep the rescue helicopters operational 24/7 — donate at rescue.org.nz.

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Fay has made a full recovery from her broken ankle and intends on climbing the mountain again soon

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A TASTE OF KURATAU BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

On the edge of the Kuratau River, award-winning Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir boutique wines are produced by Kirk Williams at Floating Rock Vineyard.

“I

owned a house in the area for nearly 30 years and bought the land in around 1999,” says Kirk. “We planted the two-hectare vineyard and began Kuratau River Wines in 2004. I added chalets and a cafe in 2007. We ripped everything out, took all the topsoil off, smoothed it down and put the topsoil back again. “We planted olive trees on the boundary, established 800 lavender plants, and built the new house. I have no idea why I chose a vineyard. It sounded like a good idea. I got a viticulturist in to see if it was possible being in the area we live.” The viticulturist established the sunshine hours were good for grapevines, but Kirk needed to be careful of the early and late frosts. “We installed a sprinkler system in the vines as it is the best frost protection. We

have only had one bad year due to turning the sprinklers on too late. In October, you get bud bursts, and the water keeps frost under control. Turning the system on late meant the water in the pipes froze, so the new buds got wiped out, and we didn’t get the fruit. “Our vines are grafted rootstock. For the last 10 years, we have operated on organic principles and only use bio ag fertilisers because we have neighbours we didn’t want to be spraying toxic chemicals for both them and our product. “I was an insurance broker and commuted from Auckland for a number of years. Sometimes, I wondered why I was doing this. It seemed like I had brought some broken down sheep paddocks. “It was hard work costing money when I could be relaxing and doing other things.

Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir are Kirk’s choice of the grape varieties

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OctOber 2021

Kuratau Wines are created from grapes grown with the Kuratau River ﬂowing below the property

Kirk Williams began Floating Rock Vineyard from old sheep paddocks in 2004

After a few years, you would drive into the property and realise we turned our land from looking like old sheep paddocks into something beautiful with the Kuratau river flowing below. “Covid woke me up to the fact that all sorts of things can go wrong, so I retired in March this year and now play in the vines. “We work with Brent Park, the winemaker from Volcanic Hills in Rotorua, on what styles of wine we produce. The vines are 50 per cent each of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, but we have a much heavier crop on the Gris. “Depending on the weather, you get the grapes as close as possible to requirements. Once they are harvested, they are sent to Brent and the wine returns in around five months. We try to keep things local, and this year, the Turangi Gardening Club came and harvested for us as a fundraiser. “Being a small vineyard, we only make as much wine as we can sell, and 100 per cent is sold through our cellar door cafe.” Kuratau Wines make Rose’ and sparkling too. Kirk says a good wine is any wine you enjoy.

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“We make mainly wines for summer because that is when people are here. They are fresh organic wines that you can enjoy over a lunch, pizza or in the evening. “If it is a really good year for Pinot Noir, you make Pinot Noir. Alternatively, you turn it into a Pinot Rose’. Our Pinot Gris and sparkling are great too. That is what we like, and that is what we make. “Rose’ is an all-occasion wine, particularly on a summer’s day. It is fresh and lightly fruity. Our Rose’ is made from 100 per cent pinot noir. The juice is clear but leaving it in contact with the skin lets the tannins leach to give it the colour. “Sarah Hunt now has the cafe, and despite Covid, she has done a magnificent job of improving and developing the business. She makes wood-fired pizza and other wonderful things that locals and travellers enjoy. It goes mad over any holidays, Christmas and New Year. “A niece’s in-laws’ parents came out a few years ago from France. Her father in law said at the front of the property is New Zealand with the hill, bush and native plants. Out the back is the scene of France with olives, grapes and lavender with the mountains of the Central Plateau in the distance. “That is why I continue to do it. It is a wonderful little hobby, and we have created something the locals enjoy too.”

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OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS ADVERTORIAL

The importance of minerals by John Arts

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In the last edition, I commented that most multi-style supplements over-promise but underdeliver. That is because most are formulated as a ‘one a day’ supplement and are often filled with too many B vitamins yet lack the minerals and antioxidants we need. Outright mineral deficiencies cause disease but of much greater importance is the number of diseases linked to sub-optimal minerals in our diet. Sub-optimal means less than our bodies need. If I could do an experiment it would be to give all New Zealanders a comprehensive multimineral, multivitamin and antioxidant and observe health patterns during a long period of time. I would not be surprised to see reductions in most chronic diseases. Farmers are very aware of the mineral deficiencies in our soil. I spoke to a farming client recently and he commented on the improvements to animal health when they added selenium and other minerals. He said the sheep went from being lethargic to full of energy. It is a real tragedy that we do not incorporate such advice

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into human health. Perhaps the issue is that, unlike livestock, humans do not have a productivity value. When I recently reformulated my Cell-X multi-nutritional supplement, I took great care to ensure that minerals, like selenium and zinc, were at levels that support optimal health. Our immune system, indeed the health of every cell, requires these minerals to produce powerful enzymes that protect our cells, including immune cells, from damage and disease. I offer you a challenge. Take a good multi-nutritional supplement like Cell-X for three months and notice the difference. Most talk about more energy, better immunity, especially in winter and just feeling well. 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 all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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On home ground These days it seems everyone has an opinion on what’s best for your farm - but opinions aren’t facts. Local knowledge and qualified expertise matter. Which is why your Ravensdown agronomist can add real value to the seed and agchem conversation for your farm. Besides, you know what they say about opinions...

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RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Managing an important feed supplement Feeding a dairy herd in spring and summer means good maize silage as a high-quality forage supplement for filling genuine feed deficits, but the process needs to be well managed to reduce costs and wastage.

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DairyNZ advises farmers that the silage is particularly low in sodium (Na), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) and can be used as an effective carrier to supplement cows with magnesium (Mg). New Zealand trials have found production responses to maize silage range between 32g MS/kg DM and 178g MS/kg DM. The highest response came from more days in milk created by feeding maize silage in a year affected by a dry summer. An analysis of more than 600 New Zealand dairy farms found, on average, that supplements fed added only 50g MS/kgDM to annual milksolids/cow and 96g MS/kgDM to annual milksolids/ha. With such variation in response possible, attention to detail is required to turn additional feed into additional profit. Maize silage is full of soluble carbohydrates, which, while being a great food for cows, is also loved by spoilage bugs, such as yeasts and mould. The aim of the ensiling process is to get the air out

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The aim is to build a stack so that when being fed out, as little maize as possible is exposed to air. Cover immediately after a contractor has finished. Seal around the base of the stack with soil, sand or lime and place tyres to completely cover the stack. When you start feeding maize, open the stack at the opposite end of the prevailing wind to prevent air getting pushed under the cover. Don’t ram a bucket or silage forks into the face of the stack, as this may allow air to penetrate.

of the stack and keep it out until maize silage is ready to be fed. Consider stack location and prepare a site in advance of harvest. Consider environmental implications such as the risk of run-off, distance to waterways, drains and other sensitive areas. Consider whether to use a stack or a bunker. The former can be located around a property, and distribution is flexible while bunkers are initially more expensive but have higher compaction rate and, therefore, less wastage.

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We all know that bigger machinery can deliver economies of scale through sheer muscle. However, is it possible to also achieve gains in brains as well as brawn? German company Krone thinks so, as evidenced by its gigantic and intelligent Big X 1180 harvesters, some of the beefiest in the business. Armed with impressive statistics when it comes to sheer size, the Big X 1180 is intended to reap as much of a maize crop as possible while it’s in peak condition. With an emphasis on usable dry matter driving innovation in this field, going large was a no brainer. However, what about working smarter as well as harder? Krone began its smart thinking with the choice of engine for the Big X, partnering up with diesel giants Liebherr to develop a super-efficient V12, producing 1156 horsepower and enough torque not just for motive power but also to wield the array of harvest technology, which culminates in a steady stream of output into a waiting tender truck or trailer. Maize farmers will know the delicate balance of time and growth, which makes for an optimum harvest. Having a machine that can power through whole fields with ease makes for less stress if the weather and conditions don’t play ball. Equally important, however, is data, the raw stuff of modern farming know-how. Collecting information about this year’s crop may well influence the nature of the next, especially when multiple strains of maize

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Krone’s Big X range is not just large; they’re intelligent, too, with the ability to help plan future maize planting with data from the current harvest just one of their strengths

can be chosen to create a time-delayed sequence of harvest operation windows. This is the reason for a popular option on the Big X — a near-infrared sensor or NIR. Built right into the output chute, this device can measure a wide spectrum of qualities in the chopped end product. Krone uses an AgriNIR online sensor, which can provide data on dry matter, starch, raw protein crude ash, crude fat,

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Herbs power livestock performance by Willi Thomas

The addition of herbs to a pasture mix is the weapon you need to enhance pasture quality and quantity when feed supplies tighten during dry periods. Herbivore Chicory and Hercules plantain can be added to perennial pastures or short rotation pastures. Herbenriched pastures provide extremely mineral-rich specialist feed for stock health, growing out young stock where there is a requirement for higher protein and metabolic energy. As a stand-alone crop Herbivore Chicory is a versatile option allowing multi-purpose grazing opportunities. The rationale is to retain a crop to graze when the animals need it rather than when it’s optimal for the crop. Chicory regrowth will restore the feed quantity after each subsequent grazing. The highest yielding chicory, Herbivore, is fast establishing and has regrowth vigour, meaning crop yields do not diminish with subsequent grazing. Its deep fibrous taproot means the plant can tolerate moisture stress and

has the ability to draw nutrients and trace minerals from deep within the soil reserves. Herbivore Chicory is a very highquality feed source of MEs of 11.5 to 13 MJ ME/kg DM at a time when nonirrigated ryegrass can contain both low ME and low crude protein. Plantain variety Hercules enhances the quality of the paddock. Hercules significantly augments the availability of cobalt, B12, calcium, sodium, copper, selenium and tannins. Hercules is a unique variety of plantain in that it has very high anthocyanin levels which allow the plant available nutrients to be absorbed by the rumen at greater levels resulting in better stock health. The superior production benefits of Herbivore Chicory will deliver throughout summer including early and late in the season.

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RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS A subsidy for hybrid tractors? by Andy Bryenton

Hybrid cars are currently receiving a rebate from the government, so what about those farmers who early-adopt hybrid tractor technology? Purely electric tractors may be a feature of future farming, should our generation capabilities and capacity evolve alongside e-vehicle technology. However, a proven method of saving fuel and adding traction is already out there. The concept of dieselelectric drivetrains goes back to the days of early submarines, which used diesel engines to charge batteries for underwater running. Thus, the idea has been tested in the harshest conditions. When one of John Deere’s large tractor development team, Roberto Javellana, was asked about the future of high-horsepower machines in 2019, he was adamant that hybrid power was the way ahead. When quizzed on the next big advancement from Deere, Javellana said: “A hybrid driveline. John Deere is already using a hybrid driveline in the popular 944K wheel loader. In this machine, a diesel engine drives a hydraulic pump, but also two electric generators. We will probably introduce this technique in agricultural machines as well in the future.” Landini in Italy has already released one new form of hybrid that doesn’t use its diesel mill to fire up a bank of batteries. Its REX4 has diesel power to the rear wheels and electric motors in the front for sure-footed all-terrain work, especially

New Holland even has a concept hydrogen tractor; hybrid and alternative power is coming to the farm in the very near future

in hilly country or in tight squeezes such as orchards and vineyards. Alternatively, Indian tractor company Solis is aiming to make big fuel savings by getting the world’s biggest farming population into a fleet of its 50hp small hybrid tractors,

using a similar set-up to a Prius road car. Shave off 20% of India’s rural diesel bill, and that’s a worldwide game-changer. At the other end of the scale is STEYR’s Konzept hybrid tractor, with drone support, four-wheel motors, a separate motor for

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OctOber 2021

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Clearing the air on methane by Andy Bryenton

This November, Green Party minister James Shaw will represent New Zealand in Glasgow, Scotland, at a summit on climate change mitigation, prompting questions on the flawed science used to calculate Kiwi farmers’ contribution. At the core of this debate sits the role of ruminant methane in climate change. Dairy and dry stock farming advocates point to the major differences between mineral methane and biological methane in the fact that the two are conflated as one in many climate change models. “Methane is an easy target and farmers are a voting minority with little leverage,” says Robin Grieve, spokesperson for the humorously acronymed but scientifically very serious Facts About Ruminant Methane group. “Even the Climate Commission was happy to have ruminant methane emitters subsidise CO2 emitters because it was expedient. “There is neither a future nor justice in any climate policies or targets that are based on a carbon accounting system that is so flawed and which massively overstates the impact of methane emissions from livestock. The system fails to take into account the cyclical nature of these emissions.” To clarify, methane generated from livestock is part of a cycle; it comes from

CO2 trapped in plants and cycles back into plants again. Thus, every addition from farmed animals is matched by a subtraction. It is the opposite of methane released from industrial and mining activities, which is not part of this biological cycle. Nevertheless, climate modelling treats all methane equally, justifying taxes and restrictions on farmers while allowing other methane and CO2 producers to maintain current levels. Hence the call from Facts About Ruminant Methane to address this misrepresentation in Glasgow, putting the focus on reducing pollution from noncyclical sources. “James Shaw needs to represent all New Zealanders and the good of the nation, not just his party and green interests,” says Mr Grieve. “Right now, our economy needs all the help it can get trying to survive Covid. It makes no sense cutting livestock production by 15% any time, let alone when debt is ballooning, and jobs are in jeopardy.”

James Shaw (left) is set to represent New Zealand at a climate summit in Glasgow, amid criticism of the means used to measure greenhouse gas impacts from livestock

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Three decades of effluent innovation

by Andy Bryenton

The Joskin company has been in the business of turning effluent into brown gold for more than three decades, innovating new ways to meet regulations and use a waste product as valuable fertiliser. “Previously considered a common waste, slurry has gradually acquired the status of brown gold among farmers,” says Joskin’s media liaison. “It is a rich and abundant natural resource, with an incredible fertilising potential at a limited cost. Its spreading, however, requires the use of suitable equipment that can preserve the natural properties of slurry such as organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, lye and magnesium.” Joskin, realising that not all farms are the same, branched out from the basic method of slurry dispersal many years ago, relegating simple scatter dispersal to history. It developed the concept of spreading booms to cover more ground more efficiently, delivering slurry closer to the soil and thus reducing outgassing, which used to see massive loss of nitrogen and the loss of ammonia, with severe consequences both in odours and benefit drop-offs. Booms are excellent for utilising windows in the weather, which provide optimum dispersal conditions. More ground covered quickly is never a bad thing when the conditions are right. Whether equipped with skids to push down and part vegetation or multiple hoses and nozzles close to the soil, tankers equipped

The Joskin brand of slurry management systems has come a long way in three decades and now offers solutions to fit all kinds of farms

with booms have understandably become a commonplace sight in rural areas. The second wave of innovation came with the advent of injectors, which use discs to slice open the pasture surface and then inject slurry into the topsoil, preserving the plant matter and feeding its roots with nutrients that have lost no ammonia and nitrogen content at all. Joskin has kept pace with new technology and, at the same time, covered

new and stricter regulations on slurry application. The two go hand in hand, as the more efficient means of dispersal, also lead to less odour and run-off. Joskin’s range of tankers also provides another advantage; portability. While some farms can rely on irrigators run from an effluent pond hub, others have far-flung paddocks and roads running through, meaning that getting the fertiliser to its destination requires tractor power.

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OctOber 2021

AG CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Electricity saving a real windfall by Andy Bryenton

Off-grid solar is a reality for many rural households, but it’s not at full power all-year-round. Perhaps modern wind generators can fill in the gaps? With 17 wind farms across New Zealand boasting 490 turbines and generating six per cent of its total energy, there’s little doubt that wind power is a burgeoning industry. New farms are being planned, consented and built now. However, if you farm something other than electricity, is a windmill a good addition to your home grid? The mathematics of wind power, coupled with New Zealand’s position in the Southern Ocean, means that it’s in a good situation to get those blades spinning. Turbine output is a function of the cube of the wind speed; that means a high average wind speed equals excellent generation. Wind power, like solar, has become cheaper to install during recent years, and the battery banks that store up the wind’s energy have become more compact and reliable too. Perhaps the best scenario for the farm or lifestyle block owner is a ‘best of both worlds’ approach. It uses photovoltaic solar energy when the sun shines and a windmill at night or during bad weather. It’s easy to see how the peaks and troughs

A small windmill was once a common sight on farms for pumping water; now, it’s equally likely to generate power

of each system cancel each other out using this method, at least on average.

In summer, the solar panels may do the heavy lifting, while in winter, with longer

nights and stormy days, wind power comes to the fore. Wind power works better out in the countryside rather than in the city, where obstacles can disrupt airflow. Even in a rural setting, positioning is of utmost importance, so it’s best to consult a wind power professional when getting a system planned out. While turbines are available online for between $2,000 and $5,000 for a five-kilowatt unit, it’s noteworthy that due to the variable nature of the wind, they will rarely operate at peak capacity for extended periods. There’s also the question of controllers, batteries and other installation infrastructure to account for when getting a quote. For those wishing to go off the grid and forget monthly power bills, investing in a backup for photovoltaic solar energy is a wise option. Wind can fill that gap. However, it’s very important to ensure that your home-sized turbine is robust enough to handle strong gales and can work well in harmony with other generation methods for those times of calm and quiet.

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AG CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Service quads reminder WorkSafe New Zealand is reminding businesses that regular servicing and proper maintenance of quad bikes can save lives. The reminder comes after the sentencing of Dairy Holdings Limited and Coryston Limited under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 in Timaru District Court on August 5 following the death of their employee in September 2019. Stacey Rodgers died as a result of crushing injuries that occurred during a quad bike roll-over. A WorkSafe investigation found that the condition of the quad bike was consistent with an ATV that had been in regular use but had not been serviced for a prolonged period. The quad bike’s brakes, steering, suspension and front bull bar/bumper were all in need of servicing/repair. The investigation concluded that the quad bike was not fit for use in a farming environment as it was in need of mechanical repair. “There are far too many preventable quad bike accidents happening across New Zealand. This is another tragic reminder that farm vehicles such as quad bikes must be regularly serviced and adequately maintained,” says area investigation manager Steve Kelly.

On average, five people die in workrelated quad bike accidents each year, and many more are injured. Most quad bike injuries and fatalities are caused by the quad bike rolling over. WorkSafe provides a range of tools and resources for businesses using quad bikes. A strong recommendation is that businesses consider installing crush protection devices on the back of quad bikes. ACC offers a cashback on CPDs, and WorkSafe urges operators to take advantage of the offer. “A CPD is a simple and valuable way of keeping users safe. While the companies had purchased a CPD for the quad bike involved, this was not installed at the time of the accident. However, the poor maintenance and servicing of the machine would still have exposed users to significant risk. “Dairy Holdings needed to have developed, implemented, monitored and reviewed an effective, safe system of work for employees operating the quad bike at Coryston Farm. Coryston should have ensured the quad bike was properly serviced and maintained.”

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OctOber 2021

AG CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS A knotty problem solved

by Andy Bryenton

New Holland has come out on top of this year’s Edison Awards with a new twist on tying knots. It’s all about better baling and greater efficiency in the field. The humble knot is one of the earliest of human invention; an achievement for Cub Scouts, the key to building sailing ships, and, it seems, an issue for agriculture. Working out how to make a machine tie knots and thus make stable bales of hay was a big achievement back at the start of the mechanisation of farming. It was only this year that some of the basic kinks in bale knotting were worked out for good. New Holland premiered the first automatic baler in 1940 and has been trying to make these machines better, bigger and more robust ever since. In 2021, it introduced the BigBaler PLUS, which came equipped with LoopMaster technology. This new system of baling hay splices the two existing forms of knot-tying into one mechanical process. A double loop is used, meaning zero offcut twine getting back into the field to snarl up the ecosystem or following machines. At the same time, the ties are tough and reliable, meaning it’s easier to handle the bales when they pop out of the chute. Carlo Lambro, New Holland brand president, was proud to take home

It will soon be time to make hay while the sun shines; New Holland is pushing the boundaries of baling technology to help make better harvests

the Edison Awards Gold Medal for this new concept. The awards are named for famous American inventor Thomas Alva Edison, a prolific technologist who invented the record player and the light bulb, among other items. “We are honoured to receive this recognition for our patented Loop Master technology, which brings significant cost and environmental

‘‘Let Us Exceed Your Contracting Expectations’’

SCHWITZER CONTRACTING

benefits to our customers,” said Mr Lambro. “By recognising that bale quality is key to delivering maximum productivity and minimum waste, over the years, our team has been focussing its resources on how to enhance these two aspects further while making baling even more sustainable.” The advantages of the Loop Master technology are manifold. For example, by

eliminating offcuts, about 45 kilograms or 5.6 kilometres of twine is saved during a 10,000-bale season. The higher tensile strength, together with the high compression system of the new baler results in denser bales, optimising truck transport with more tonnage for each load. That means transporting fewer loads, further reducing the impact on the environment.

“Let us exceed your contracting expectations”

SCHWITZER CONTRACTING MINI CONVENTIONAL WRAPPED BALES / HAY BALES

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Karl Schwitzer M: 029 8235074 H: 07 8235074 Sam Schwitzer M: 021 08350085 E: karl@schwitzer.co.nz www.facebook/schwitzercontracting

OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

AG CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS by Paul Campbell

Ban on methyl bromide use

A total ban on methyl bromide fumigation aboard ships to treat log exports will be imposed by the Environmental Protection Authority from January 1, 2023. The substance is toxic and ozonedepleting but used internationally to kill pests and is required by India and China to be used on logs they receive from New Zealand. “The EPA’s role in regulating hazardous substances involves carefully balancing environmental, health, economic, and cultural factors,” says general manager of the EPA’s Hazardous Substances group Dr Chris Hill. “The decision released sets a roadmap to full recapture of methyl bromide. It provides a clear and structured pathway for industry to reduce the amount of methyl bromide emitted. The decision recognises the benefits associated with methyl bromide use while also protecting human health and the environment. Stepped increases will apply to the recapture of methyl bromide from containers and covered log stacks, starting from January 2022. This phased approach will be more achievable than a single target, allowing the EPA to ensure that requirements are being met by industry at each stage. The decision also introduces much stricter accountability and reporting measures. “Operators using methyl bromide will be required to provide annual reports to the EPA about their activities in greater detail than before, to ensure actions are being taken to reduce methyl bromide emissions. This information is additional to the existing requirements administered by WorkSafe NZ,” says Dr Hill. There will also be larger buffer zones to prevent people from being in the vicinity while the gas is being used. As well, local councils and affected parties, including neighbouring marae and other community facilities, must be notified in advance of fumigation happening.

Fumigation of ship holds will be banned

“While methyl bromide use is being phased out globally, in New Zealand, its use increased by 66 per cent between 2010 and 2019. We are currently out of step with most other countries, which are turning away from this ozonedepleting substance. “However, the combined controls imposed by this decision will result in methyl bromide emissions being reduced significantly over the next five years. The

aim is also to disincentivise the use of this fumigant. “While the EPA would like to see methyl bromide use phased out as soon as possible, we acknowledge that this is the only biosecurity treatment that some key overseas markets are prepared to accept,” says Dr Hill. The EPA is encouraging continued negotiations with international trade partners to reduce and, where

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COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

possible, eliminate the use of methyl bromide and the explore acceptance of alternatives. Fumigation of logs and timber exports accounts for 92% of methyl bromide use in New Zealand. Total log exports were worth $3.61 billion in the year to June 2021, according to the Ministry for Primary Industries. In 2018, 22% of all exported logs were treated with methyl bromide.

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WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

OctOber 2021

BEST SOLUTION FOR YOUR DAIRY FLOOR

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Now there is an extremely cost effective and easy to use product that will bring back your damaged concrete floors to an approved standard. COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER has been specially formulated for the repair of worn or damaged concrete in the dairy industry. Dairy Floor Resurfacer is a two pack system combining a Portland cement, fine aggregate based micro concrete and sophisticated binders that provide superior, compressive, tensile and flexural strength as well as a very high level of abrasion resistance and adhesion. This product is suitable for repairing worn or pitted areas or to provide a non-slip surface where necessary. A two pot clear epoxy sealer can be supplied to reduce the wearing effects of milk and acid. COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER can be supplied as a ‘do it yourself kit’ and delivered anywhere in New Zealand or applied, in most areas, by contractors. COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER Part A is supplied in 20kg bags and covers approximately 3m square. Part B modifier is supplied in both 10litre and 20litre containers and approximately 4litres per 20kg bag would be required. After trowelling, the surface can be broomed or sponge finished.

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OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

DAIRY

INSTALLATION  SERVICE  REPAIR OF PUMPS AND IRRIGATORS Broken shafts | Broken seals | Pump not performing | Irrigator not spreading

ADVERTORIAL

Slurry tanker buying tips by Michael Prestidge, Nevada Effluent Management Specialist

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Knowing the signs and stages of labour, how to calve a cow and the immediate care needed after calving will create the best outcome for you, the cow and her calf.

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Buying a slurry tanker is a big decision. While it’s important to choose the desired quality and performance you’re after, it’s also really important to consider the context you’ll be using it in. Based on our experience and feedback from farmers, here are a few things to consider when buying a slurry tanker. On-road? If you’re thinking of carting it on the road, there are a few things to be aware of: 1. Weight per axle – New Zealand road rules limit the weight per axle that can be carried. This makes the size of the axle critical and can often mean you’ll be better off with a tandem or tridem slurry tanker. 2. Braking capacity is critical. You’ll want to make sure the slurry tanker has good brakes in case of emergency braking. 3. Left-side driving configuration. Check for things like side mirrors and visibility for left-side driving on New Zealand roads. Give yourself room for growth When following up with farmers a few months after getting their slurry

tanker, we hear they love the tanker but wish they’d gone the next size up. While the size they bought is perfectly adequate, it’s a case of them finding the slurry tanker provides more benefits than they’d originally thought. They want to be using it more — hence the next size up would be handy. With a trend for farmers to have bigger tractors and wider gates, we’d recommend going for the biggest slurry tanker your tractor can handle. You’ll find there’s less downtime, and you’re more efficient. Check out Paul’s advice in this recent follow-up success story. Hilly ground If you’ve got hilly paddocks, you’re likely to find more stability with more wheels. So for smaller slurry tankers, look for a tandem axle over a single axle, and larger tankers, you’ll be better with a tridem axle. Always make sure the slurry tanker size is suitable for your tractor size, and where possible, ask for a test drive. Makes and models of slurry tanker will perform differently. You’ll also want to ensure your slurry tanker has brakes on all wheels for safety.

New Zealand’s Dairy Effluent Management Specialists | nevadagroup.co.nz | 0800 464 393

DAIRY

WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

OctOber 2021

Animal tracing penalties increase by Paul Campbell

Animal identification in all areas of pastoral farming is a bone of contention for some but an essential safeguard for the industry, so it is perhaps surprising that some farmers still fall foul of the law. This time, courts have acted against dairy farmers who have failed to act. Recent cases have included a number of farmers who have been convicted for failing to register their animals under the National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) scheme. In the most recent case, a mid-district farmer was fined $20,000 after earlier pleading guilty to seven charges under the NAIT Act for not registering 106 cows between May and July 2020. Last week, a Waitui farmer pleaded guilty to 19 charges under the NAIT Act and was fined $18,900 for not registering 175 cattle between April and September 2020. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has recently secured two additional NAIT convictions, which are awaiting sentencing.

The NAIT scheme enables MPI to track and trace cattle and deer when they are moved between farms or for processing. It’s a critical factor in its ability to act quickly and decisively in response to biosecurity threats that could have devastating effects for New Zealand. In December 2019, parliament increased the penalty for non-registration tenfold, meaning the maximum fine was increased from $10,000 to $100,000 and these fines are the first under the updated penalties. MPI regional manager of Animal Welfare and NAIT Compliance Joanna Tuckwell says it’s important for farmers to do the right thing because biosecurity is critically important to the agricultural sector.

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NAIT tags are essential

“We certainly take it very seriously, and the increase in fines shows parliament does too. “People in charge of NAIT animals need to get this right. When they don’t, they potentially put the whole

sector at risk if a biosecurity matter involving farm animals was to occur. The higher penalties under the new regime reflect the seriousness of the situation,” Joanna Tuckwell says.

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October 2021 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BUSINESS PROFILE

DAIRY

Effluent spreading options

Nick Wright established Paramount Effluent in 2018 after noticing a lack of effluent pumping services in the Waikato region. “I grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Martinborough, went to Lincoln University and completed a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Agriscience and Accounting.” Nick has worked in New Zealand, Australia and Europe. “I have also travelled extensively working in Holland, Spain, Belgium and Germany operating pea viners. I worked at the Australian Wheat Board on the logistic team, managing road freight across the eastern seaboard. “I returned home in 2016 and worked for John Austin as a customer manager and later for J Swap Contractors in their dispatch team. “I was keen to work for myself, but there are many hay contractors and the like, so I wanted to diversify from that. In Holland, I was introduced to people who have an effluent spreading company, and they are quite a way ahead of us in effluent management and regulation. “They gave me the idea to bring the system here. I was excited at the prospective value my services would offer to farmers, assisting them with the ever-changing environmental regulations while adding to their bottom line and saving them money.”

Nick Wright uses a Case IH tractor with a flat lay hose and umbilical system

Nick invested in a new Case IH tractor, a 1.6km of flat lay hose and umbilical system made up of the dribble bar with a knife within that cuts out any lumps that might try to come through and clog up the lines. “It is all really simple machinery. I also have a 140hp Case IH tractor at the pond, which pumps effluent through the hose and to the umbilical system for spreading.

“I use GPS/TracMap for proof of placement where I have been and the rate the effluent was applied. My system protects waterways, complying with regulations while simultaneously improving the farm’s system, reducing fertiliser costs and spreading nutrients that are most compatible with the natural environment. “My service enables farmers not to have to worry about rates in which to

apply to ensure maximum benefit. The umbilical spreading system is superior to other options out there, as I can get almost 100 per cent coverage to the paddock. “In my opinion, it offers a huge advantage over irrigation spraying, as you know exactly where it has gone, and there is no potential for it to drift to sites not wanted and no chance of ponding. It is far easier to make sure the effluent is clear of waterways. “There is far less mess and wear on raceways compared with tankers or moving irrigators, and there is no interruption to stock moving around the farm. “Effluent is a natural, dilute liquid fertiliser containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulphur and other trace elements that would typically be included in the purchase of fertiliser. So utilising on-farm effluent presents the perfect opportunity to capitalise on a cost-effective resource that’s already on the farm. “It’s always satisfying to see an empty pond at the end of the job, and the farmers are usually rapt with the job. Being out in the community as an agricultural contractor is actually a gratifying job.”

” t i y a r p s t ’ n “Lay it, do

THE BUSINESS OF EFFLUENT

Effluent is a natural fertiliser containing Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium to name a few. Why not manage the nutrients in your effluent the same precise way you do with all other fertilisers? Paramount Effluent provides GPS proof of placement, on site nitrogen testing and pond stirring, all as a part of their service. • Is your pond too full for your liking with the busy calving and mating seasons approaching?

Nick Wright 022 678 9877 nick@paramounteffluent.co.nz paramounteffluent

• Are you looking to replace the nutrients sucked out of your soils by nutrient hungry crops such as Maize? • Do you want to spread effluent on different areas of your farm? All questions around laying it, rather than spraying it, we are here to help.

WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

DAIRY ADVERTORIAL

OctOber 2021

Molasses: a top choice

by Lisa Kennedy

• Feeds Rumen Microbes — The high sugar content of molasses stimulates the growth and activity of rumen microbes. Increased microbe activity improves fibre digestion in the rumen, especially high fibre pasture, PKE and maize silage and improves overall feed conversion efficiency.

• Builds Resistance — The highenergy levels of molasses assist cows in being less susceptible to heat-related stress in summer and be less likely to suffer the effects of a harsh New Zealand winter. Contact your local WSF sales representative today.

T, WORK, P EA , L Y

Why WSF Molasses? There is more to molasses than what you may think. Scientific studies are revealing amazing statistics on the benefits of molasses on milking and why it should be the first choice for farmers when choosing a supplement. Did you know that molasses: • Improves Feed Conversion Efficiency — Ohio State University conducted tests on molasses versus starch-based products and found considerable improvements in milk production using molasses versus just grains. • Is Palatable — Cows love molasses and when mixed with other feeds, this in turn, improves the palatability, especially PKE and maize silage. • Provides Energy — The correct levels of molasses stimulate appetite, so milking cows will eat more, which in turn, boosts energy levels, improves pregnancy rates, maximises days in milk and improves MS production. Stimulating the cow’s appetite around calving when cows are trying to reach peak production is an investment that pays off.

Molasses is a great all-year supplement and has been widely used on NZ farms for many years to supplement animal feed.

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL

Winton Stock Feed are a major supplier of molasses to New Zealand Industry. With over 20 years in the trade, we know a thing or two about molasses, molasses delivery systems and farm productivity. We stock bulk molasses throughout the country, and will be pleased to discuss your requirements at any time. Contact us for more information: Jamie Stephens North Island Operations Manager Mobile: 021 838 261 or Office: 03 236 6089 office@wintonstockfeed.co.nz www.wintonstockfeed.co.nz

0800 MOLASSES

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OctOber 2021 WAIKATO FArMING LIFeStYLeS

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