Livestock
Treat cattle wearables as a tool, not a system
AgDesign's Tom Chisholm says virtual fencing and cattle wearables are not a silver bullet, and farmers should design the system before buying collars. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Better drenching decisions with rapid worm species test
A newly launched lab test quickly identifies worm species, helping farmers make timely, informed drenching and parasite management decisions. Words Sandra Taylor.
Bay of Plenty farmers build wealth beyond the farm gate
Bay of Plenty farmers John and Catherine Ford have steadily diversified off farm, building a second source of wealth beyond land and livestock. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos John Ford.
The farming rulebook has changed
The recent record sale of a dairy farm in mid-Canterbury has Tom Laming reflecting on how we can take a different approach to dairy farming’s future. Words Tom Laming.
Yard weaning benefits growth rates and calf health
As calf weaning gets underway, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is encouraging farmers to consider yard weaning as a way to get calves off to a great start. Words Sandra Taylor.
Rearing at scale
Strengths in the softer skills of building long term relationships, coupled with the collection of robust data, are at the heart of an impressive calf rearing operation in Canterbury that’s home to 3500 calves annually. Words Anne Lee, Photo Holly Lee.
Weaning check impacts lamb cheque
Weaning is a critical period for lamb growth rates. They can easily falter if not timed correctly. Andrew Dowling, Technical Expert – Animal Health at PGG Wrightson, offers practical solutions to help avoid a weaning check that doesn’t bounce in your back pocket. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Beef Finishing Transforms Hill-Country Farm
Setting up cell grazing systems on their Te Pahu hill-country farm has transformed more than just Heather Gilbert and Elliot Kent’s bottom line. Words Sandra Taylor.
Feed Planning for Lamb Success
Spring is a critical time – pasture growth accelerates, and stock performance can soar if managed well. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Expand Their Horizons
It’s not new that farmers learn best from other farmers, particularly small groups that meet regularly. Is it time to expand your knowledge in a key area by joining a focus group? Words Sandra Taylor.