Representatives from Federated Farmers of New Zealand, stock firms, feed suppliers and MAF Quality New Zealand have met
to discuss how the Canterbury Region would handle feed supplies in extreme weather conditions.
The meeting confirmed that quality feed stocks, nuts and grain are still available. However, to be sure of supplies in
mid August it is necessary to place orders with stock firms today. Mid August may well be a risk period for adverse
weather conditions.
"Responsibility for animal welfare lies with individual land owners, but a neighbours problem becomes everyone's problem
if real animal welfare issues arise," said FFNZ North Canterbury President, Pam Richardson.
The meeting noted the change in balance between dairy, sheep and beef and arable farming and that new diary conversions
have created added pressures.
"Hay and baleage are the practical feeds to use during a heavy snow fall," Mrs Richardson said. "It may be that a silo
of grain provides peace of mind, and stock should be started on grain and hay and sileage is held back."
Farmers are reminded that continued feed budgeting is vital in times of extreme pressure.
ENDS