11 September 2013
Urgent need for generators – big or small
Media are asked to report this information to help Canterbury farmers through this weather event.

Power cuts throughout the South Island and significant damage to irrigators will mean that some dairy farmers will not be able to milk for some time and access to water will prove problematic.

Federated Farmers says most herds are at the beginning of their milking cycle, which will be demanding on farmers with out power.

“Farmers are in urgent need of generators to get them through the next few days. If you have a generator spare, there are farmers prepared to travel great lengths to get them. So please get in touch if you are able to help out,” says Katie Milne, Federated Farmers Adverse Event Spokesperson.

“We advise dairy farmers that in this event they can afford to be flexible with milking herds, reducing milking to once a day or twice in three days to get them through this.

“Dairy farmers must be careful in that they keep feeding their herds well to avoid the drying-off process as it will be harder to get cows back to full production. Cows need to be milked out properly to avoid them developing mastitis.

“An update from Orion says farmers could be with out power for up to five days in areas west of Christchurch. It is key to check on your neighbours and ask friends and family for help if necessary.

“This is going to seriously hit farmers in the Canterbury region and we advise farmers who have been affected to get in touch with the Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254, if they need support or advice,” concluded Ms Milne.

ENDS

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