PRESS RELEASE
Orewa, 14th July 2007

Available for immediate publication.

Wandering Stock a Concern

Rodney District Council is reporting a noticeable increase in the number of stock wandering on roads throughout the district.

It is reminding farmers that boundary fences should be kept in good order and be suitable for the type of stock.

Before stock are put in a paddock farmers should check all fencing to ensure that the stock will be contained at all times, says the Council. Checks should also be made of gates that adjoin road frontages and consideration be given to providing additional security in this area by way of a chain or wire.

It is important that stock owners manage their stock well and plan for times where there is a shortage of feed. Overstocking should be avoided.

The Council says that any landowner who intends to lease land for grazing also has a responsibility to ensure all boundary fencing is maintained to a standard suitable for the purposes intended.

Electric fences are not suitable as permanent roadside fences.

Stock owners should note that they may be held liable in the event that their stock escape and cause or contribute to a motor vehicle accident resulting in death, injury or damage to property.љ They are also responsible for a Council imposed call out fee if information is received on wandering stock before 8am or after 5pm

A general inspector for the Council, Sue Howard, is inviting graziers and landowners to contact her on (0800) 426-5169 and give her details of where their stock are currently being grazed. She says this will help council staff quickly locate the owner of any stock reported wandering on the road. This will also facilitate the prompt and safe return of the stock and may avoid impounding fees.

ENDS

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