Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Daily Digest: June 22, 2020

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The promise of sheep milk is gradually being realised, albeit at a slower rate than some of its boosters breathlessly predicted several years ago.
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Perhaps that’s a good thing. It’s preferable to have production closely aligned with markets than to see a wholesale conversion to a product for which there is less demand than initially hoped.

Nevertheless, the signs are auspicious with sheep milk attracting higher premiums than cow or goat and encouraging two of the leading companies in Waikato to convert a further seven farms this season for a total of 13.

There’s a lot to like about sheep milk. It has nearly double the milksolids of other milks and is ideal for the lactose intolerant and, compared to cows, sheep are much less damaging to the environment.

Gerard Hutching 

Winter grazing looking good

Environment Southland has done an aerial inspection of winter grazing and is pleased with what it has seen so far. It appears farmers have made an effort to avoid the practices that drew nationwide condemnation last year.

Business in driving seat

Business will drive the next phase of economic recovery, industry commentators say. But they stress the need for certainty so businesses can plan their future and the urgency of a partnership with the Government.

Junior young farmers awarded

A Canterbury pair from St Bede’s College took out top honours in the 2020 FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year. Like many events this year it was virtual though the competitors didn’t feel that detracted from the enjoyment.

Road charges opposed

Trucking and contracting companies are unhappy about the 5.3% increase in road user charges and have launched a petition to ditch the rise, which is due to take effect in July.

Sheep milking grows

Seven Waikato farms have converted to sheep milking this year with a further half a dozen conversions expected in the 2021-22 season. Sheep milk fetches a higher premium than cow or goat.

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