Though Fieldays is a virtual event this year the Agenda again offers a thoughtful analysis of the issues facing the private sector.
This year author Ian Proudfoot has done away with the usual single narrative for the Leader’s Voice and has separated out other perspectives, in particular women and millennials.
The result shows these groups hold different priorities for the challenges facing the primary sector; no surprise perhaps but instructive nevertheless. They are important voices to engage with as they will be driving future agendas.
Gerard Hutching
Sluggish start for dairy training
The GoDairy campaign has got off to a slow start but industry leaders are positive demand for the training courses will pick up as job losses mount in other sectors.
Regen agriculture proves popular
Hundreds of people have turned up to regenerative agriculture seminars in Northland to listen to advocates describe a system that promotes a diversity of plants and reduces reliance on chemicals.
Hydrogen gas project
Hydrogen-powered heavy trucks will be on New Zealand roads from next year thanks to a project in Taranaki. Besides producing hydrogen gas it will be used to make nitrogen fertiliser for Ballance Agri-Nutrients.
Viva la difference
Millennials and women have different priorities to male primary sector leaders according to KPMG’s Agribusiness Agenda for 2020. Author Ian Proudfoot said it is important to listen to a wide range of views.
Seed levy backed
Growers have overwhelmingly supported the seed levy, which safeguards the supply of non-proprietary and uncertified seeds. The levy is collected on behalf of Federated Farmers by all seed testing stations.
Tonight on Sarah’s Country
7.10pm – New Zealand’s first green hydrogen plant will take wind-generated electricity and turn it to hydrogen gas for both nitrogen fertiliser and fuel for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Ballance chief executive Mark Wynne will join us to discuss the green gas project in Taranaki.
7.20pm – With record on-farm bull sales for the Angus breed this season topping $104,000, Angus NZ president and Delmont Angus breeder John Cochrane join us to discuss the key factors driving demand in this year's sales.
7.30pm – The store lamb markets have been red hot in recent weeks but can we expect prices to continue to lift? Senior sheep and beef analyst Mel Croad unpacks the drivers in the lamb market impacted by covid-19.
7.40pm – The Tahr Foundation is condemning the Department of Conservation for what it describes as its sham consultation over plans to kill thousands of Himalayan tahr. A spokesman for the organisation and NZ Hunter Adventures host Willie Duley will discuss the slap in the face for the outdoor community.
