NAIT debate - Yesterday federation leaders convened a meeting with members of the governance group from the National Animal Identification and Traceability project (NAIT) to express mounting concern about the project and future implications of the scheme. A better understanding of the concept was developed but the federation is far from being in concert with the proposals as they are currently presented. The federation considers there are many questions yet to be fully answered and that the concept has yet to be well communicated to people affected the most - animal owners. Following the recent release of a discussion paper from NAIT the federation is now reviewing how it wishes to progress this important issue. If you want to view the discussion paper it can be found: http://www.nait.org.nz/download_file.cfm/NAIT_Implementation_document.pdf?id=212,fl

Have your say at: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n573.html

WTO disappointment - There is widespread disappointment at the collapse of the World Trade Organisation talks in Geneva this week. However, participants seem hopeful that the agreements reached on 18 of the 20 outstanding points can be captured and talks can be salvaged in the near future. A WTO agreement would be hugely beneficial for New Zealand, as it would create savings for exports and increase market access. http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n608.html

GM future review - The Minister for the Environment has instigated a review into the future management of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This will be a staged approach with the overall goal of providing greater assurance to non-GM growers while still allowing ERMA to approve GM crops subject to best practice. Short timeframes have been provided for submissions with a cut-off date of 15 August. Federated Farmers has been supportive in allowing farmers to be able to utilise opportunities available for controlled GM that will lead to greater productivity and profit. However, the federation wants to ensure that the agricultural industry is not placed at unacceptable risk from GM products and accordingly any approvals must consider all the risks and benefits to farming members.

Permanent solution - Federated Farmers policy advisor Nigel Billings attended the Local Government New Zealand conference held this week in Rotorua. The conference theme was "sustainable communities", and speakers addressed this vaguely defined issue from financial and environmental perspectives. Of interest to farmers is the growing consensus in local government that their property value rating system requires permanent, formula-based revenue from central government to close the infrastructure gap. Federated Farmers has long pushed this option, arguing that revenue from income and sales taxes is far more equitable and transparent than rates based on theoretical property values. It is important that the federation continues constructive dialogue with provincial councils on a unified approach to Government. Hastings District Mayor Lawrence Yule was been elected president of Local Government New Zealand. His council runs one of the very few differential systems in New Zealand that clearly identify and contain the level of rates on farms. Federated Farmers looks forward to a constructive working relationship with Local Government New Zealand.

Southern tour - New board member Phil York visited South Canterbury this week and met with provincial president David Williams and local members about Transpower transmission line negotiations. Phil says the trip down south means he has a much better appreciation of the issues facing members with transmission lines on their properties. He said farmers converting to dairy were most affected as the pylons get in the way of centre pivot irrigators. He says life member Tom Henderson was also a great help in showing him the surrounding areas and the benefits of Opua Dam.

Boot ban - Federated Farmers welcomes the decision of Fish & Game, as regulator of the fishing industry, to ban felt-soled waders. Federated Farmers has been advocating for the ban on these boots since the didymo spread began. Felt-soled boots are considered a high-risk vector or carrier of microscopic aquatic organisms like didymo. These infestations in New Zealand's pristine waterways and the problems that result from this invasive weed to electricity generators, irrigators and the public at large should not be underestimated. Minister of Conservation approval is needed before the ban becomes law probably on 1 October.

Leaders upskill - New provincial presidents and industry chairman gathered in Wellington last week to upskill and learn how to better access the federation's many services. The opportunity to develop closer unity between the provinces and an understanding of each province's particular issues was also a positive outcome of the week. Ruapehu president Lyn Neeson said by the end of the course everyone was fired up and ready to take their new skills home and put them into practice. The stay was extended for some with bad weather closing Wellington Airport.

Endosulfan risks - The federation is preparing a submission to the Environmental Risk Management Authority on the classification of the insecticide endosulfan. Endosulfan is the product which has been found in New Zealand beef exports to Korea, resulting in suspension in our exports and thereby costing the economy millions of dollars. The Federation would like your views on whether we should advocate for a ban on this product's use on fodder crops or in agriculture. Have your say: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n616.html

Advance warning - Federated Farmers president Don Nicolson said farmers all over New Zealand had enough warning from forecasters to be well prepared for the storm that is passing over the country this week. He said although the lambing and calving season had started for some, there had been no reports of large stock losses. He said it has been an interesting year for farmers, dealing first with drought and now bad storms. "If farmers have advanced warning of severe weather, the majority will be well prepared. Severe weather is a risk that goes alongside the business of farming. The self-help ethic is strong in the rural community and farmers invest considerable amounts of money and effort both individually and collectively into risk management initiatives, such as drainage and irrigation infrastructure, feed and water storage, and flood protection," he said.

Storm recovery - Federated Farmers supports the efforts of the rural community including Fonterra, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, power companies and local authorities in trying to ensuring that Horowhenua and Manawatu farmers can get back to normal. Federated Farmers provincial president for Manawatu-Rangitikei, Gordon McKellar says it is a busy time on dairy farms with calving and with sheep farmers preparing for lambing. "All farmers care about their stock and it is great that everyone is pulling together to look after them. The rural community is known for pulling together and looking after each other in times of need," he said. He says it is important for farmers to share generators were possible. He also reminds farmers to be aware of hazards such as falling trees and power lines. Federated Farmers has been involved in the establishment of a network of Rural Support Trusts. If local farmers need assistance they should phone the local Rural Support Trust 06-329-6860 or 0508-376-8448.

Hurunui damage - Heavy rain in the Hurunui district of North Canterbury has isolated some farming families and caused substantial damage to farm tracks and fences. The state of stock is not yet known as access is difficult. A survey of the area will be carried out as soon as possible. Provincial president Chris Sundstrum says to let him or a branch chairperson know of any damage to help in the process. Contact Chris on 03-312-0408.

Chainsaw essential - Ruapehu president Lyn Neeson hopes members have their firewood in, milk in the fridge and says if you go out don't forget the chainsaw!  She says if members have any emergency issues call the emergency co-ordinator for Ruapehu District Council, Annie Petersen, on 027-476-9120. She will organise assistance or direct you to people who can help.You can also phone Ruapehu District Council direct on 07-895-8188 or president of Ruapehu Federated Farmers Lyn Neeson on 07-893-8547.

1080 battle gets ugly - Individual farmers on the West Coast have been dissuaded from speaking out in support of 1080 after indirect threats that their water supplies and milk tanks could be contaminated, and farm buildings razed by radical anti-1080 groups. A family dog owned by a Greymouth pest control officer was poisoned two weeks ago and this week security officers have been appointed to protect West Coast Regional Council staff worried about their safety. Packages of 1080 have also been sent to government offices in Wellington, the latest arrived in the post today. In mid-July, Federated Farmers sent a letter to Karameans Advocating Kahurangi Action (KAKA), the most outspoken group against the use of 1080, explaining the position of farmers. Federated Farmers explained in the letter that the eradication of Tb is imperative to the ongoing viability of New Zealand agriculture and that 1080 application is important for enhancing the country's conservation and biodiversity values. Federated Farmers will continue to work with the West Coast Regional Council, the Department of Conservation and Royal Forest & Bird in ensuring continued use of 1080.

Sky high - The High Court has upheld an Environment Court decision to grant consent to Skywork Helicopters to establish a helicopter base near Warkworth, dismissing an appeal by a local residents group. Auckland Federated Farmers had earlier appeared in the Environment Court in support of the proposal, with members Dean Blythen, Naiouli Wilson and Bruce Collins giving evidence to the court on the importance of having helicopter services available to their farming businesses. At the High Court hearing, Federated Farmers supported submissions made by counsel for Skywork and the Rodney District Council. In dismissing the appeal to the High Court, Justice Priestly described the Environment Court decision as "comprehensive, clear, and compellingly reasoned".

Fuel tax refunds - With the price of petrol and diesel so high, it's worthwhile making sure you're getting a refund of your petrol tax and Road User Charges for off-road use. If you wish to get these rebates for off-road petrol and diesel use, you need to get a MR-70 form (for petrol) or a RUC-OR form (diesel). You should be able to pick these up from the post office. However, it seems many post offices aren't stocking them. If you find this to be the case you will have to contact Land Transport New Zealand to get the forms sent out to you.

Sharemilking agreements - With the 2007/2008 season now complete it is timely to remind members that there is a strict timeframe to be adhered to if either a sharemilker or farmer wishes to make a claim against the other for any breach of the Sharemilking Agreement.  For those on a 50/50 Sharemilking Agreement all notices of claim must be served upon the other party, detailing the breach and damages sought, within 28 days of the close of the season. For those on a Variable Order Sharemilking Agreement the timeframe is 21 clear business working days after becoming aware of the alleged breach with a limit of 21 clear business working days of the close of the season.  The timeframe for claims relating to the 2007/2008 season has now expired, so if you have not already made your claim, you will be unable to do so. 

Redirection - New Zealand Post's redirection service is an easy way to make sure your mail follows you when you change your address. At least three working days before you need your mail redirected, complete an application redirect mail form at your local PostShop. Each redirection must be from one address to one new address. For more information about the redirection service including fees, terms and conditions visit: www.nzpost.co.nz/redirections.

Drenching dairy cows - Climatic conditions have been challenging for a lot of farmers this year and feed is tight. Drenching cows at or after calving may be advisable, especially if their body condition is not at its best. Parasitised cows will generally eat less, produce less milk and be less likely to get back in-calf. If treating cows at or after calving, it is important to use a product with a nil milk with-holding period. For more information visit the Ravensdown website: www.ravensdown.co.nz/Products/Animal+Health/Anthelmintics/Cattle/Abamectin+Pour+On.htm

For advice on any another subject call 0800-327-646 or visit: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/

Special discounts

Members, check out howCheck out the new specials from Canon and Swanndri that are now available. For more information call 0800-327-646 or read more online >>

Contracts, agreements and books

Members can purchase Federated Farmers contracts and agreements at a discounted rate. To order click on the link below:

Employment products: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n228.html

Other products and agreements including: lease; contractor; sales and purchase; agreement to grow; log books; access pads; and Over Dimension Certificates: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n230.html

Books available for sale are: Ghosts in the Valley by Richard Steele http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n202.html and Farming and Subsidies: Debunking the Myths by Brian Chamberlin http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/n202.html

Baaarilliant - Congratulations to Federated Farmers policy advisor Melissa Jessen, who was admitted to the bar last Friday. She is now officially a barrister and solicitor. Drinks are on us.

Abandoned hives -Federated Farmers Bees wants to know if you have neglected or abandoned hives on your property. Managing bee disease is vital for the ongoing sustainability of beekeeping and pollination services. The American Foul Brood Pest Management Strategy requires that all beehives are registered and apiary details are recorded on the national database. Please assist by emailing or faxing details of any neglected or abandoned hives to canterbury@fedfarm.org.nz or fax: 03-357-9451.

Employment seminars - Sign up for a Federated Farmers Employment Seminar in October http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/calendar?year=2008&month=oct

or November http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/calendar?year=2008&month=nov. The cost is $65 for members and $165 for non-members. Call 0800-327-646 to register. See when a seminar is in your area: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/eventsandtraining.

Maize growers AGM - The Maize Growers committee is to hold its annual general meeting on Thursday 7 August at the Hamilton Airport Motor Inn from 10am to 3pm. This meeting is open to all maize growers. Speakers include representatives from MAF Biosecurity New Zealand and Ravensdown. This will be a good opportunity for maize growers to discuss important issues such as prices, supplementary feeds and biosecurity. For more information and to register, contact Carly Sluys at csluys@fedfarm.org.nz or 0800-327-646 by Friday 1 August.

Rural Butchers meet - This will be held in Dunedin on Saturday 13 September at the Accor Mercure Hotel. Highlights of the conference will include a trip to the Inox Stirling Meat Equipment Centre and Saturday night dinner with fellow rural butchers. To book your accommodation, contact Eva Johnston; email ejohnston@fedfarm.org.nz or phone 0800-327-646. See the agenda here: http://www.fedfarm.org.nz/f53,19908/19908_Rural_Butchers_Agenda.pdf

Water conference - Water quality and quantity are closely linked to the use of the land, prompting vigorous debate on the science and management of water resources and management of land. Irrigation New Zealand is bringing together key stakeholders, scientists and water users at an international conference being held in October. The conference programme has been carefully put together to encourage learning, identify and discuss key issues, and motivate attendees for the challenges ahead. Register at: http://www.irrigationnz.co.nz/. Register by 14 September to qualify for an earlybird discount.

Quote of the week - Weather is a great metaphor for life - sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad, and there's nothing much you can do about it but carry an umbrella. - Pepper Giardino