19 February 2000
PR11/2000
FEDERATED FARMERS STAND BY MEMBERS
South Island farmers who planted Major Plus swede seed this season have found their crops to be mixed with a fodder rape
variety.
Federated Farmers are acting to assist farmers through this situation.
The President of Federated Farmers of NZ, Alistair Polson, said today that the national organisation is moving quickly
to assist affected farmers.
"The federation, using its 0800 telephone system, has established a database of affected farmers. Federated Farmers
officials have met the supplier to work out how to best manage the affected crops, and what assistance may be afforded
those properties," said Mr Polson
The immediate priority is to ensure that farmers who have suffered a loss of planned winter feed are able to winter
their livestock in the best possible environment. Any issue of compensation will be dealt with in time.
"By telephoning Federated Farmers on 0800 327 646, farmers may record the detail of their situation, enabling the
federation to negotiate the best outcome on their behalf."
Swede turnip crops with more than 30% forage rape will now not be able to provide the volume or quality of mid-winter
forage.
Those crops containing a high level of forage rape may have to be fed off earlier than projected. As a consequence,
farmers will have to provide extra feed or obtain another source of winter feed for their livestock.
ENDS For further information: Alistair Polson 06-342-2853 or 025-370-085 Kevin Geddes 03-307-8148 or
025-203-3437