df028 dairy focus january

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ASHBURTON

Dairy FocusGuardian

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January 2014

Dairy Focus January 20142

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A tiny parasitic wasp is keeping pace with an evil weevil on its march south.

The clover root weevil (CRW) was discovered in New Zealand in 1996, and is thought to have arrived in a shipping container then carried to a Waikato property on farming equipment.

By 2004 it had spread throughout the North Island, and was � rst seen in the South Island in 2006.

The impact on North Island dairy pasture was signi� cant, resulting in substantial declines in productivity, with up to 1500 weevil per square metre detected on a Waikato farm two years after it established.

AgResearch entomologist Mark McNeill said the weevil was an accomplished traveller.

“It can get around long distances by hitchhiking on stock vehicles, hay and machinery – particularly at this time of the year,” he said.

It also � ies considerable distances, and is well adapted to populate the Canterbury plains.

“The conditions on the Canterbury plains are perfect; they take advantage of the nor’west winds. If you want to see weevil � ying that’s a good time to do it.”

Mr McNeill and fellow entomologist Dr Scott Hardwick have been tracking the spread of the weevil, which has now established in pockets in Southland on the West Coast.

But luckily for farmers it often carries its own seeds of mass destruction with it – in the form of an Irish wasp, a tiny parasitoid introduced in 2006 as a biological control method.

The wasp lays its eggs in the adult weevil. As soon as the young wasp hatches the weevil stops laying eggs. The wasp eventually overruns its host and

kills it. “If it’s parasitised at the � rst instar, which is the larval stage – when it’s just a baby, it will � y with the weevil,” Mr McNeilll said.

The wasp feeds on nectar, and is harmless to humans and other species.

“It seems to be doing very well, it’s been very e� ective – the weevil population booms, the parasitoid comes along and just knocks it for a six,” Mr McNeilll said.

“The weevil population collapses and the parasitoid

Dairy Focus

An advertising publication of the Ashburton Guardian

Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Ashburton Guardian

Publication date: January 28, 2014

Next issue: February 25, 2014

We welcome any correspondence to either:

Michelle Nelson, phone (03) 307-7971email: [email protected]

Desme Daniels, phone (03) 307-7974email: [email protected]

Campaign against clover root weevil

Dairy Focus January 2014 3

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population collapses as well.”The scientists have conducted

research for a DairyNZ-funded project to determine the e� ciency of the pasasitoid as a biological control method.

“We are monitoring the new generation of weevils to see

where the parasitoid got to, between now and winter it will be spreading quite a lot.”

Wasps have been released at 30 sites in the South Island to keep ahead of the weevil population, and are spreading at about 20 kilometres a year.

Mr McNeill said the weevil was not a signi� cant threat to the clover-seed industry in � rst-year stands, but can establish and cause problems in second- and third-year stands.

Researchers are also looking at bio-insecticides, and developing CRW tolerant strains of clover, and clover management strategies to combat the pest.

Dealing with a clover root weevil infestationDo not attempt to re-establish clover into CRW-infested pastures by drilling or over-sowing clover seed, because adult CRW prefer clover seedlings.

Include white clover in the seed mix sown after full cultivation. New clover plants develop a taproot, which may be an advantage for survival

in year one. Apply nitrogen fertiliser for the clover as well as for the grass to support clover growth and survival, especially in new pasture.

Additional phosphate-based fertiliser, lime and any other soil additives, will not rejuvenate clover in presence of CRW. Regrassing after cultivation does not have a lasting e� ect

on CRW, as adults repopulate these areas.

More than 80 per cent of New Zealand dairy farmers apply nitrogen fertiliser from 25 to 200kg N/ha annually, at typical rates of 25 to 50kg N/ha per application. While these application rates are primarily targeting a grass response they are the � rst and most important

step to minimise the impact of CRW on the farm business.

Farmers with CRW infested pastures report improved clover growth and plant survival from small but frequent applications of nitrogen fertiliser applied year round.

• From http://www.agresearch.co.nz

A clover � ower emerges from pasture in a Mid Canterbury paddock.

The clover root weevil adult is a small, speckled-brown weevil, growing up to 6mm long and is found in the base of pasture throughout the year.

Numbers vary seasonally with lows in winter and summer, and highest population densities in spring and autumn.

When feeding, the adult

makes characteristic U-shaped notches on the edge of the clover leaf. This damage is easily identi� ed and di� erent from other pests, for example, slugs and clover-� ea.

CRW larvae are creamy white grubs from measuring from 1mm to 6mm long, found in the root zone under white

clover plants. CRW larvae are present throughout the year, and feed only on clover roots, and associated nodules, reducing nitrogen � xation, and clover production and persistence.

• From: http://www.agresearch.co.nz

From larvae stage to adult


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LIC scientists have found a genetic variation can cause dairy cows to lose their

calves through pregnancy.The variation, known as Fertility

1, has been in the New Zealand dairy cow population for more than 40 years with carrier sires identi� ed that were born in the 1970s.

Fertility 1 is a recessive genetic variation which means that both the sire and dam need to have a copy of the genetic variation before a calf will be a� ected – and then only 25 per cent of them. Three per cent of jersey animals carry the variation and 1.5 per cent of crossbred animals.

The variation a� ects fertility and calf survival. Animals are thought to die in utero or are stillborn. No live animals have been seen with the variation.

LIC will genotype all of its active bulls and may use carrier bulls where their genetic merit warrants use. DataMate, used by LIC AB technicians, will issue alerts to reduce the frequency of matings between two carriers

of the variation, and a genotype test will be available to farmers, wanting to test their cows, through GeneMark.

DNA sequence technology allows the entire DNA pro� le of an animal to be mapped out. This technology has allowed LIC scientists to map and compare the DNA of many di� erent AI sires and to identify speci� c di� erences in their DNA.

Comparing the DNA sequence of a large number of sires has enabled LIC to identify a speci� c segment of DNA (one piece out of 3.2 billion) which is linked to the Fertility 1 variation.

The discovery of the genetic variation was enabled by the sequencing dataset developed by LIC scientists and co-funded by Government through the Primary Growth Partnership.

Why did LIC go looking for this variation?

LIC is committed to the identi� cation and management of genetic variations that a� ect the fertility and survival of dairy animals. This research is focused on several interesting variations

Bad genes identi� ed

The genetic variation, Fertility 1, is found in the jersey herd and causes cows to lose calves during pregnancy.


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which are observed in our sequenced animals which are then investigated to understand if they have an e� ect on fertility and survival.

Given the low incidence rate, would many farmers have experienced this variation on their farms?

In a jersey herd of 400 cows it would be expected that farmers would have had one animal a� ected over the past � ve years.

What is the frequency of Fertility 1 gene variation in the average New Zealand jersey herd?

The frequency in the jersey herd is about 3 per cent, so 12 carrier animals in an average herd of 400 cows.

What is the frequency of Fertility 1 gene variation in the average crossbred herd?

The frequency in the crossbred population is about 1.5 per cent, so six carrier animals in an average herd of 400 cows.

Why doesn’t Fertility 1 gene variation exist in holstein friesians?

It appears that the variation � rst occurred in a jersey animal at least 40 years ago. There are a small number of holstein friesian animals that do have the variation and this is due to them having jersey animals in their distant background.

Are carrier cows a� ected?NoWhat can farmers do to avoid

matings between carriers of

Fertility 1?The gene’s discovery has led

to the development of a DNA screening test which LIC is applying to all its bulls. The test will also be made available to other genetics companies so they, in turn, can screen their bulls.

LIC AB technicians use DataMate, a handheld computer which contains each farm’s herd records and into which potential matings are entered giving an alert for several factors (like inbreeding etc). Where it is possible that a cow is a carrier because of her ancestry, the use

of DataMate will minimise carrier to carrier matings reducing the incidence of cows being infertile due to this variation.

The discovery of the genetic variation means that, in time, Fertility 1 gene variation will be managed out of the national herd.

What high use LIC bulls are carriers of Fertility1 gene variation?

See table, left. What is the incidence of Fertility 1 in overseas dairy herds?Unknown as we have only

looked at NZ animals.Will LIC make the screening

test available to other genetics companies?

LIC will be making the screening test available to all genetics companies with the expectation that they will test their AI sires and publish the results.

How many LIC bulls have been carriers of the gene variation?

About 300 sires from the past 30 years have been identi� ed as possibly being carriers. These will be con� rmed over coming months through genotyping.

Will LIC remove all high-use sires from its bull teams?

No. All LIC bulls are being screened for the genetic variation and any that are carriers will be clearly identi� ed on DataMate ensuring that an alert is given to minimise the chances of a mating between a

carrier bull and a carrier cow. Will more negative genetic

variations be discovered?Yes. The most recent human

research in this area has con� rmed that most humans carry 40 to 110 variations with negative e� ects. LIC expects to discover more genetic variations in dairy animals and that bovines will have a similar number of these negative gene variations. LIC is committed to researching and discovering those genetic variations because discovery provides the ability to manage them out of the national herd.

Is this the � rst recessive gene discovered in dairy animals?

No. There have been several examples of recessive undesirable genes discovered in dairy animals around the world eg CVM, BLAD, DUMPS, Brachyspina, Factor XI, Mulefoot and Small Calf Syndrome. The discovery of each genetic variation has led to the introduction of managed programmes which have signi� cantly reduced them in dairy populations both internationally and in New Zealand.

As a farmer what is the most practical course of action for me to take from here?

Our advice is to continue to record the parentage of animals accurately to allow tools such as Datamate to minimise the frequency of carrier to carrier matings.

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Milk urea (MU) values are being supplied to New Zealand dairy farmers and there is con� icting information about what the values mean.

Basically, MU is an indicator of the amount of protein in the diet of the cow; generally, the more protein in the diet the higher the MU. “MU is only an indicator and is not a sensitive measure of dietary protein. This is true when dietary protein exceeds 20 per cent, as often occurs in pasture,” Dr Jane Kay, DairyNZ senior scientist, said.

“Urea is a non-toxic compound that animals produce to get rid of surplus ammonia and having urea in cow’s milk is perfectly natural,” Dr Kay said.

Rumen micro-organisms digest protein and produce ammonia. Excess ammonia crosses from the rumen into the bloodstream and is transported to the liver where it is converted to urea. The urea is then released into the bloodstream and is either excreted in urine or milk.

In New Zealand pasture-based systems, MU levels are much higher than in systems where cows are fed a mixed ration.

“When cows are grazing spring pasture, MU levels can be greater than 50 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dl) and, contrary to advice being given to New Zealand farmers, high MU concentrations are not detrimental to milk production, cow health or

fertility,” Dr Kay said. The high MU is because cows grazing high-quality pasture are eating more protein than they require. “To reduce MU, farmers would have to feed a lower protein diet. This requires the feeding of low-protein supplementary feeds, which are not pro� table if there is already enough pasture for the cows,” Dr Kay said.

Dr John Roche, principal scientist at DairyNZ, said farmers should be mindful of any advice on feeding supplements containing starch or sugar to “capture” more dietary protein, or that a low MU means that more protein is being captured by the cow.

“Such advice shows a lack of

consideration for post-ruminal digestion and post-digestive physiology. The conclusion from New Zealand data and data from all over the world is that the reduction in MU through feeding supplements is almost exclusively through the reduction of dietary protein and not some magical capture of protein by the cow,” said Dr Roche.

Although high MU is not a problem and does not need to be corrected, low MU (less than 20-25 mg/dL) may indicate that dietary protein is limiting milk production.

Care is, however, needed when interpreting MU values, Dr Roche says. “As MU is not a

sensitive indicator of dietary protein it should be followed up with a laboratory analysis of feed ingredients as well as an assessment of the complete diet for adequacy of protein. Only then should any decision be made on whether to purchase high-protein feeds.”

Although MU values are associated with the concentration of urinary nitrogen, lowering the MU value will not necessarily reduce environmental N loading. Other management factors, such as stocking rate, pasture utilisation, e� uent management and nitrogen fertiliser, have a much larger impact on environmental N loading.

Con� ict over milk urea values

The NZ Transport Agency has approved funding for the

Timaru District Council to widen the Factory Road bridge over the Orari River, near Temuka.

The single-lane 1960 bridge will be widened to two lanes at a cost of $3.29 million, of which the Transport Agency will provide $2.07 million under the funding assistance rate.

“This work will greatly improve

access along this section of the road, particularly for milk tankers travelling to the Clandeboye Dairy Factory,” says the agency’s regional planning and investment manager Bruce Richards.

The 173-metre long bridge is controlled by tra� c lights. Up to 1400 vehicles travel on Factory Road during the summer, of which 35 per cent are heavy

vehicles. Factory Road is the main access for the Clandeboye Dairy Factory.

“The project will include strengthening the bridge to carry vehicles weighing up to 111 tonnes in the future.”

The project to widen the bridge is expected to be tendered next month, with work scheduled to start in May. The work will take 18 months to complete.

Orari River bridge widening approved

The Factory Road bridge, near Temuka.

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If it is, then your e� uent pond has gone rotten and what you can smell, amongst other things, is Hydrogen DiSulphide

(H2S), otherwise known as rotten egg gas. This occurs when the anaerobic bacteria (the bad guys) outnumber the aerobic bacteria (the good guys). Aerobic, as the name suggests, means they need oxygen to survive, and when insu� cient oxygen is present the process of oxidation of your pond reverses and becomes a reduction reaction, where crusts form and sludge builds up.

When this does occur, losses of 25 to 80% of the Nitrogen contained in your slurry become a reality, with de-nitri� cation rapidly sending your N o� into the atmosphere as a gas along with other pungent pongs. The secret to preventing this unpleasant situation is to supply and feed the bene� cial bacteria, which will then decompose and break down solid wastes rapidly and e� ciently so they can be pumped over your e� uent paddocks with ease.

To work e� ectively, e� uent ponds must be correctly managed. As anaerobic activity increases within the pond, high levels of suspended solids rise to the surface, dry out, and create crusting. These crusts also prevent oxygen from reaching the lower levels and slow the rate of manure degradation. Also, as oxygen concentration in the lower levels decrease, fermentation occurs resulting in

gaseous emission of unpleasant odours.

DBC BIO-logics, a division of Dairy Business Centre (NZ) Limited, has developed proven BioEf-Ex technology for the e� ective management of your e� uent pond.

The BioEf-Ex e� uent management system requires two essential, but simple, steps:

BioEf-Ex Starter is applied approximately three times per annum on average. This supplies a variety of essential aerobic bacteria to re-colonise the pond with the bugs we want, and to displace the anaerobic nasties we don’t want.

BioEf-Ex Maintainer is then added on a regular weekly basis, for as long as needed, to maintain the microbial balance within the pond, especially at depth where problems originate.

When used as a complete system in the prescribed manner, BioEf-Ex is a highly e� ective way to utilise the nutrients contained in your dairy waste, whilst reducing the levels of harmful coliforms by e� ciently digesting the solids that create them.

For more information, or to have your pond inspected, please contact Gordon Biggs at Dairy Business Centre (NZ) Limited, phone (027) 431 5002 or contact our o� ce on 03 308 0094, email o� [email protected].

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FinD out how to eARn A higheR RetuRn thAn BAnK DePoSitSJohn Moore of Hamilton Hindin Greene is running a

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When investing, asset allocation and diversi-� cation are terms we

often hear. But what do they really mean?

The main factors which determine someone’s asset allocation is, � rst, their risk tolerance, meaning their willingness and ability to potentially lose some or all of their initial capital in pursuit of a higher rate of return.

Second, their time horizon to invest, a long-term investor most probably feels more comfortable taking on extra risk than a short-term investor since they have additional time to potentially recover from any losses.

Diversi� cation is essentially what the frequently used colloquialism alludes to by not having all of your eggs in one basket. This encompasses asset class, industry sector, currency and country. For example it would be considered risky to have your entire portfolio invested solely in the technology sector, or any one sector for that matter.

A diversi� ed portfolio aims to avoid large � uctuations in value since many assets are negatively correlated and as a result assists with reducing risk.

Some studies would suggest that up to 90 per cent of a portfolio’s return can be linked to the asset-allocation strategy.

Your asset allocation should

therefore be reviewed on a regular basis to account for changes in your risk tolerance, personal circumstances, age and requirement for income.

Reweighting of assets should be monitored in relation to the performance of the markets as during bull market periods your exposure to equities is likely to

become overweight relative to other asset classes within your portfolio.

Historically, New Zealanders’ � rst, second, and third options for a preferred investment has been leveraged residential property resulting in them being overweight to this one asset class and geographic

location. It also often involves taking on more risk than most would realise (borrowing to invest can often be fraught with danger – see the property market crashes in Ireland, Spain and the United States, or the Christchurch earthquake for cautionary tales).

Obviously there are bene� ts of directly owning an asset, however, for added diversi� cation there are other ways of obtaining exposure to property which I will discuss in subsequent columns.

If you are unsure what your risk pro� le is, or if you are interested in identifying what type of investor you are, please contact your adviser.

In columns to follow I intend to break down the di� erent assets classes and elaborate on each one in greater detail.

• Grant Davies is an authorised � nancial adviser at Hamilton Hindin Greene Limited. This article represents general information provided by Hamilton Hindin Greene. It does not constitute investment advice. Disclosure documents are available by request and through www.hhg.co.nz.

Investment jargon explainedBY GRANT DAVIESHAMILTON HINDIN GREENE

Having all your eggs in one basket can increase your risk of exposure to � nancial disasters, ie, Canterbury earthquakes and the housing market.

WaterForce is a nationwide company that understands water – how it moves, how it flows and how to manage it.By partnering with world-renowned suppliers Valley and OCMIS we are able to supply the latest technology in centre pivot and hard hose irrigation. Utilising these product ranges and our in-house experience in pivot nozzle combinations, the WaterForce team can ensure optimum efficiencies of distribution with pivots, linears and booms.A lot of WaterForce’s success is to do with the product choices we have made. WaterForce along with Valley pivots and linears make it happen.

Farmers are famous for being shrewd consumers. With every dollar hard-earned from real, physical labour, they’re not going to waste it.The bottom line is value. Farmers find that value in a variety of ways when they invest in Valley equipment. That’s made Valley the leader in mechanised irrigation, and their products the first choice of farmers all across the country.Today more than ever, demands on farmers are taking centre stage - from a tighter regulatory environment that reduces the amount of water available to farmers to rising land prices. Doing more with less to keep a healthy bottom line is just a way of

life for most farmers. This pressure has increased the need for them to implement irrigation where it wasn’t present before or convert to a more efficient form of irrigation in order to increase yields while working within the new resource restrictions. With new technology and enhanced product features from Valley, even farmers with oddly shaped fields or fields with obstructions are now able to irrigate or upgrade their irrigation to a more efficient form requiring less input of water and labour.Corner arms, benders, spinners, VRI and longer spans are all available to farms to help achieve more with less.

Recently launched SCADAfarm provides for detailed operation of Valley pivots from an App on your smart phone along with providing data from your Valley pivot operation. An App will soon be released which will allow total pump station control from your smart phone.Combining these technologies and with the highly efficient EcoPump, WaterForce can also design effluent dispersal systems that ensure optimising of your nutrient resource. The EcoPump is a total solution pump station that has a progressive cavity pump operating at twice the efficiencies of conventional pumps.Combine this with our experience gained in distributing through the pivot sprinklers, or a separate system under the pivot spans and you have a total solution for your effluent dispersal.As an INZ (Irrigation New Zealand) member, we support the initiatives of the Irrigation Code of Practice for ensuring high performance standards of designers and the Certificate in Irrigation Design (CID) which will enhance the standard of irrigation design in New Zealand.It all adds up to a company that understands the needs of its clients.

The recent development of large scale water storage facilities is assisting the farmers of New Zealand to achieve the economic and social benefits that irrigation can provide.

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Profi t from SustainabilityFertigation is an effi cient and effective way to fertilise crops, saving time and money while improving yields. Fertigation Systems works with existing irrigation and nutrient plans to improve pasture sward and grazing residuals; reduce soil compaction; increase soils carbon levels; provide more control over where and when nutrients are applied; and is an effi cient way to apply nutrients.

Fertigation is an effi cient method to fertilise crops, saving time and money while improving yields. Fertigation works with existing irrigation systems.

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Profi t from SustainabilityFertigation is an effi cient and effective way to fertilise crops, saving time and money while improving yields. Fertigation Systems works with existing irrigation and nutrient plans to improve pasture sward and grazing residuals; reduce soil compaction; increase soils carbon levels; provide more control over where and when nutrients are applied; and is an effi cient way to apply nutrients.

Fertigation is an effi cient method to fertilise crops, saving time and money while improving yields. Fertigation works with existing irrigation systems.

Benefi ts are:No spreading costs Reducing soil compaction, Precision control over where and when nutrients are applied

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Fertigation emerging as a complementary technologyAs farming continues to change,

with pressures from all angles, fertigation is an emerging

technology which can counter some of those pressures.

Fertigation involves applying fertiliser through the irrigation system, allowing famers to control the timing, amount and concentration of fertiliser applied. The technology has been used in intensive horticulture and orchards for many years with great success.

Fertigation Systems Ltd owner Graeme Pile says the bottom line is that operators can retain production, while lowering costs, resulting in better pro� tability.

“Fertigation has been used on some Canterbury farms for the last � ve years – and those operations have also seen the bene� ts of reduced costs and increased pro� tability.

“This anecdotal evidence seen by farmers has been backed up by results of trial work conducted by well renowned research companies and local universities on the comparing liquid fertilisers and growth hormones with solid urea. Results show quicker response by liquids and the same or better pasture production and quality.”

“At the moment, farmers using fertigation employ it as an integral part of their nutrient programme. It combines seamlessly with the application of, say, phosphate, sulphur & lime in promoting pastoral and crop production.

“It’s is an e� cient way to apply the correct nutrients at the correct time to optimise plant growth.

Mr Pile says fertigation bene� ts farmers through:

• Reducing costs of applying fertiliser,

• Less soil compaction,

• Reduce nutrient leaching by applying the nutrients little and often, and

• Easier to manage grass production.

Environmental issuesWhen it comes to land and water

resources, fertigation can help farmers stay within their “N” limits. By only applying what the plant requires there is less nutrient to be leached. Also by adding liquid Humates to the nitrogen it helps keep it in the root zone where it can be utilised.

When fertigation is combined with tools, such as soil moisture sensors, precision irrigation and nutrient budgeting, farmers will � nd it easier to

farm sustainably, Mr Pile says.

“There will be no fertilisers being applied to sensitive areas, such as creeks, springs or rivers, or to roads and tracks that are on the farms.

“Farmers can apply fertiliser when the soil is able to hold the nutrients, as the moisture level is below � eld capacity.”

With the new Precision irrigation systems, farmers can automatically change fertiliser application rates and fertilised areas on their computer. The fertigated area is highlighted on the screen and the amount applied is automatically recorded in the database for future reference for the nutrient budget and pasture management.

So in summary, if farmer want to maintain their pro� tability by reducing costs, farm within their nutrient limits and have better soils with happier cows, they should consider fertigation.


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Recreational interestsand irrigation

You � nally made it out of the o� ce and hit the road for a much-deserved break. Whether

you towed a boat, carried mountain bikes or packed the caravan or tent for a quick escape this summer, chances are you took advantage of irrigation infrastructure.

While most of us think of our water-ways as natural, in reality many popular water destinations have been modi� ed to support farming or energy produc-tion. Your summer holiday just as likely included a dip in a river or lake that helps generate electricity or waters crops as it was swimming at the local pool.

Increasingly farmers and irrigation scheme managers are incorporating recreation interests when they design systems. Event managers and community groups are also recognising the potential of irrigation canals and storage ponds for fundraising and thrill-seeking.

The challenge for those managing irrigation infrastructure is ensuring holiday makers and adrenalin junkies can be safely integrated into operations, without impeding vital irrigation � ows. We pro� le several irrigation schemes working with their communities to provide access to water for activities other than irrigation.

New Zealand’s largest irrigation scheme, the Rangitata Diversion Race (RDR) is also one of our oldest. Depression-era labour was used initially to build the race which o� cially opened in 1945.

Several Mid Canterbury community groups already take advantage of the RDR’s 67 kilometres of canals – most visibly the Peak to Pub, Big Day at the O� ce and Frostbusters multisport races.

And this Easter, a new endurance horse-riding event is likely to see riders crossing the canals as part of 36 hours on horseback in the district.

Ben Curry, the RDR chief executive, says it’s a balancing act providing access, as health and safety as well as operational and insurance issues, need to be taken into account. But the company tries to � nd ways to accommodate requests.

While swimming is not allowed due to multiple potential hazards within the water (some of which are submerged), � shing, duck-shooting and cycling along the canals are permitted. A local tourism company has just been given approval to o� er high-end cycle tours along the RDR close to the foothills, and the Methven Walkway, created by the local Lions group and a well-used visitor attraction, meanders along sections of the race.

“We had hoped that the RDR would have been included in the National Cycleway network. It’s still an aspiration,” Mr Curry said.

Lake Opuha is the jewel in the crown when promoters cite wider bene� ts

BY ANDREW CURTISIRRIGATIONNZ CHIEF EXECUTIVE

South Canterbury Diabetes annual duck race held in an irrigation channel on Arowhenua Road.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED BY DIABETES SOUTH CANTERBURY Continued on page 14

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from irrigation. The man-made 700-hectare lake not only provides water for 230 farms, but as the most accessible lake in South Canterbury, is a magnet for boaties, kayakers and rowers.

While rainbow trout were found in Opuha River before the dam was built, brown trout and salmon have since been released into the lake.

Opuha Water Ltd chief executive Tony McCormick says since it was � lled in 1998, the lake has been a popular destination for anglers and boaties.

Opuha Water supports community use of the lake and its related systems where it can. Fundraising events are common and one of the most colourful is South Canterbury Diabete’s duck race held in an irrigation channel on Arowhenua Road. Fairlie Lions has run a duathalon and mountainbike event around the lake for the past two years and before that hosted � shing competitions. Farmer and Lions member Murray Bell says the lake is the perfect setting.

“It’s a great facility and the location is good as it’s convenient,” Mr Bell said.

As a scheme shareholder, Mr Bell says he, like other farmers

who supported the lake’s forma-tion, is buoyed by its success. “The duathalon is such a small part of it. Any weekend you are there it’s crowded with boats and in the early mornings you watch the rowing clubs turn up.”

Keith McRobie, the Timaru Rowing Club president, can vouch for Opuha’s value.

“We’ve used the lake pretty much since it was � lled. We are quite limited in Timaru with just a 1km stretch of water so it was a Godsend to have something developed just 45km from town.”

Opuha is usually rowable year-round as it is sheltered and accessible during most weather conditions, says Mr McRobie.

Having access to the lake for the past decade has improved South Canterbury’s rowing results. “The schools here punch above their weight at a regional and national level. Every year we have one or two national representatives and Opuha is part of the reason.”

Discussions are under way with the irrigation company and supporters about dedicated facilities for rowing at the lake. Three Timaru schools leave boats stored on farmers’ properties but ideally a purpose-built storage shed and rowing ramp will result in the future.

“We’ve had some discussions

with the company and we’re very keen to pursue. If you compare us with Auckland or any other major city, 45 minutes is not really a problem,” he says.

The Lake Opuha Users Group was created when the lake was � rst formed to initiate extra amenities for visitors and recreational users of the lake.

Committee member David Williams says its biggest project to date has been the building of a boat ramp to create safe access. Before that up to 150 cars would converge on a 300m section of lake edge that o� ered the easiest access. Now 90 per cent of tra� c has been redirected to the boat ramp, he says.

As a farmer, Mr Williams says the biggest challenge

now is ensuring the lake’s recreational popularity doesn’t impact on its delivery of water to shareholders. “One of the biggest problems for Opuha in the future could be the issue of minimum � ows. Some of the recreational fraternity would like to see � uctuations in river � ows. But at the end of the day it is the irrigators who are paying,” he says.

Another issue, not created by recreational use, but occasionally compounded by poor behaviour by some boaties, is the spread of didymo. The irrigation scheme and recreational users will need to work together to tackle the algal bloom problem in the future, says Mr Williams.

“Irrigation has provided a great facility by putting this lake here.

For the recreationalists there has been a big spin o� . At the end of the day it’s been very positive for them and the economic value to our community is also positive.”

The Lower Waitaki Irrigation Company prides itself on a strong relationship with its community, says chairman Chris Dennison. “We’re very keen to add bene� ts to the whole community and not just through the economic driver that irrigation brings.”

Among its initiatives is the Take a Kid Fishing day which the company resurrected in conjunction with the Waitaki Irrigators Collective after an absence of many years.

Using a shareholder’s attractive tree-lined pond already stocked with trout, 700 salmon were released resulting in happy young anglers, says Mr Dennison.

“The farmer kept his pond open for several weeks after the event to allow the public to � sh in a controlled environment with pretty good odds. For young people � shing is about catching � sh and most of the kids went away with something for dinner.”

The company has also worked with a high school to provide access for a fast-water kayaking course. Kayaking experts created the course on the scheme’s intake channel by placing obstacles within the stretch of turbulent water and hanging gates from overhead wires.

Boaties making use of Lake Opuha.

Continued from page 13

Fun on the water


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Rainer Irrigation – Providing irrigators for every application

Imagine having key access to a private waterway with a suite of yachts, kayaks and

paddleboards available for year-round use.

It’s not the lifestyles of the rich and famous, but an exciting new initiative by a group of Oamaru dairy farmers who have made sailing and kayaking accessible to anyone in their North Otago community.

The farmers, all shareholders of the Lower Waitaki Irrigation Company, saw an opportunity for recreational use of a � ve hectare irrigation bu� er pond developed just over a year ago. With the support of the irrigation company, they created the Lower Waitaki Water Sports Trust to progress the concept.

While the pond was built for irrigation storage, trust chairman Richard Willans says its proximity to Oamaru, easy access and unimpeded views make it ideal for anyone wanting to learn how to sail or paddle.

“It’s the safest place to get out and learn on. You can see the whole pond from any point as it’s just so � at.”

Local farmers supported the project as a way to encourage greater interaction between

townies and farmers. “We want to get people from

the town out into the country,” he says.

Ironically, Mr Willans admits none of the trust’s committee had sailing or paddling experience before getting involved, but local boaties and kayakers have been happy to provide advice. He says they’re enthusiastic about the new water asset on their back door-

step which compares favourably to the next closest waterways, the Waitaki Lakes, which take another 40 minutes to reach.

The project to date has cost more than $150,000 with the trust sourcing funding from the irrigation company, local businesses, Meridian Trust, Waitaki District Council and the Otago Community Trust.

A four-bay shed for storage, fencing of the area and a car

park were completed just before Christmas and the project’s jewel in the crown is a � oating jetty.

For only $50 a year, key holders gain access to the pond as well as the use of 10 yachts, 15 kayaks and two paddleboards stored at the lake.

Water safety measures including lifejackets and a fully in� atable motorised rescue boat are also available on-site.

The Lower Waitaki Irrigation Company granted the trust a long-term peppercorn rent for the site because chairman Chris Dennison says the company sees the project as worthy.

“In constructing the pond

we aimed to design structures and controls so they posed no harm to the public and the risk to users would be minimal. Working with the community on this joint venture has produced a great outcome and all this happened very quickly.

“The pond was only built in late 2012 and the trust’s facilities were � nished last month,” he says.

Originally the pond was going to embrace day visitors such as anglers, but advice from a health and safety consultant suggested compulsory membership would safeguard its farmer-backers.

You have to be a member of the trust to use the pond; however membership is open to anyone who is happy to abide by a comprehensive list of rules in place to ensure the safety of all users.

An o� cial opening of the pond will take place in the next couple of months and the trust hopes to bring unnamed Olympians to town to launch the project.

• You can fi nd out more about the Lower Waitaki Water Sports Trust via its Facebook page.

Pond open to scheme shareholders

The Lower Waitaki Water Sports Trust’s new yachts ready for action on the irrigation bu� er pond.

It’s the safest place to get out

and learn on. You can see the

whole pond from any point as it’s

just so fl at.Richard WillansTrust chairman

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BEAT THE SEASONSRedpath’s clear roofing lets the light in for a clean, dry healthy floor

W H A T F A R M E R S A R E S A Y I N G“The shelter eliminates rainfall washing effluent from the feedpad - it’s a fantastic shelter to have in heavy rainfall seasons” Takaka

“The clear heavy duty Durashelter roofing gives warmth in the winter and keeps the floor drier & healthier” Kaikoura

“The soft floor system is easy on the cows and i can hold them inside for as long as i want, i mix the litter into my feed crop when finished” Gore

“I feed out through central service land or along the side walls- with almost nil wastage” Southland

A Redpath Dairyshelter takes the stress out of what to do with your herd when the weather packs up! Redpath clear roofed deep-litter shelters protext your cows in

comfort and are an on-going asset that future-proofs your business FREEPHONE: 0508 733 728EMAIL: [email protected]

www.redpath.co.nz

Redpath’s clear roofing lets the light in for a clean, dry healthy floor

Best season prices!

Built on site from

just $450 per cow

New Zealand’s � rst in-shed meal feeding system was manufactured and

installed by PPP Industries in 1967.

In 2002 the � rst separator into New Zealand to remove solids from dairy waste was installed. By pre-treating e� uent there are less issues with either irrigating out dairy e� uent and or leaving treated e� uent in a pond to be treated naturally.

An on-farm feed mill should save you money in feed costs but when using roller mills you always get whole grain that passes through the rollers therefore not crushed. To solve this issue a new type of disc mill is now being used on farms in New Zealand. The PTW mill manufactured in Germany is quite revolutionary in that power requirements are only 5.5 HP to process about 2 tonnes per hour. The mill can also mill grain that has up to 40 percent moisture which is unique.

Most importantly though with the new PTW mill the farmer can with absolute con� dence mill grain consistently to the ideal

particle size for the best dairy cow nutrition requirements.

As greater demands are being placed on dairy cows to produce consistently, animal health then plays a major part in obtaining high production � gures and on reigning in on-farm costs. There are now tried and proven options for independent mineral lines or in line mineral dispensers to give additional additives to assist with health and production with in shed feed systems.

The future of New Zealand dairy farming is based on sustainability. A new product launched this year is a clari� er which further treats e� uent after a press screw separator enabling the farmer to remove suspended solids down to 80 microns or the thickness of a piece of paper. This will make recycling of waste water more feasible and also reduce the time e� uent needs to spend in oxidation ponds.

Fieldays are a great opportunity for farmers and business people to view what is out there that can improve their farm pro� tability in a sustainable manner.

Close up of patented discs on feed mill.


Call Allan McCormick today on 307 0412 or email [email protected]

3 BAY• 3M Back

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growth and the nutritional value of the grass is much higher. v Cows will happily eat the grass just two days after the effluent

has been spread. v The aerobic bacteria in Impact also see pathogens, (such as

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v No damage to pond liners because they don’t need to be mechanically cleaned out.

A typical treated pond pumped out to only about 300mm deep, and still no smell and very little build up of solids.

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When your pond is dosed regularly with Impact, And you have a Plucks Effluent Pond Stirrer installed, you will have the ultimate pond management system, where you will be able to draw your pond right down to nearly completely empty any time you want, with little risk of blocking your pump or irrigator, because most of the solids have been eaten up and dissolved.

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Rotaries � rst appeared on New Zealand farms in the mid-1960s following

development by Taranaki farmer Merv Hicks, but their use has been limited to a small proportion of farms until the past decade.

In 2010 40 per cent of New Zealand dairy cows were milked in rotary dairies. The larger a herd, the more likely it is to be milked in a rotary. The rotary has now become the dominant technology for milking cows.

Early rotaries were small – up to 30 bails, but nowadays it is more common to install a 40- to 60-bail rotary, although there are examples of up to 100-bail systems.

Rotary dairies are appealing to farmers for several reasons. Higher cow throughput rates per operator are possible, particularly with large herds. Additional technology allows

one person to operate the dairy and a lower level of skill is required. On the other hand, the cost is substantially higher than for an equivalent herringbone design.

The rotary has become important technology on New Zealand farms, yet few studies have quanti� ed milking performance and sought to understand the key factors for e� ectively operating this type of milking system.

A DairyNZ-funded project set out to answer this question using data collected from commercial farms, experimental studies testing the implications of di� erent milking routines and milking end-point decision criteria and simulation modelling.

Eighty farms, selected by technological criteria, provided benchmark data for a range of milking e� ciency measures.

A range of shed sizes was included to represent the systems in use, and 84 per cent used in-shed feeding systems, and the majority of sheds were less than seven years old.

Equipment from six di� erent primary suppliers was installed on the farms.

Milking data was collected for 10 milkings between the end of calving and start of mating (September to November 2010, 65 farms) and again in late lactation (February to April 2011, 80 farms).

Milk quality, cow health and the comfort and safety of people are important considerations when assessing the milking

performance on a farm. Cows milked per hour increased linearly with increasing shed size. Smaller rotaries (40 bails) achieved, on average, 149 cows per hour at peak, increasing to 213 cows/hour in late lactation. The highest throughput was achieved by 80-bail systems at 447 cows/hour (with two operators) and this rate did not change from peak to late lactation.

Three factors limit the speed at which the platform can turn: cow loading, cupping speed including other tasks the operator(s) must perform, and the number of cows requiring a second rotation.

The skill of the operators and their ability to cup cows consistently is important in achieving an e� cient yet sustainable platform speed.

In the benchmark group the average length of time one person spent cupping at peak lactation was 140 minutes; however, the range was from 60 to 345 minutes. Cupping time was reduced in late lactation to an average of 91 minutes in a milking session with a range of 31 to 196 minutes. A feature of many farms was that operators swapped tasks during a milking session.

A measure of how e� ectively farms were using the rotary platform was calculated. The e� ective utilisation rate was the total time the machine was milking divided by the total time the shed was running.

The maximum utilisation being achieved was between 49 and 63 per cent, and did not appear to be related to shed size, meaning for 40 per cent of the time the plant was running but not milking – because of cows � nishing milking part-way round the platform and empty bails.

The majority of rotary milking systems are underused. There appears to be scope for improving cow throughput by focussing on the operating procedures, in particular factors in� uencing platform speed and the percentage of cows completing a second rotation.

Study � nds rotaries under-used

Milking cows in a rotary shed.

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When you have been up since the crack of dawn, that charming nor ‘west wind is howling and the

end of milking seems days away, the last thing you want to worry about is if your farm buildings will hold together.

2013 was a year of extreme weather from wind to rain and snow we got it all and not in small measures. The marks of this beating still shows in Mid Canterbury today, with knocked over Pivots, felled trees and barns stripped of their roo� ng.

Now at the start of 2014 the weather still hasn’t settled down, meaning that while we may have patched up that missing patch on the barn or nailed back down that loose sheet on the dairy shed roof. These DIY repairs may not hold up to another extreme weather onslaught.

Innovation has struck for a local company that has seen the worst of these repair and patch jobs in the last few months. Canterbury Long Run Roo� ng operating out of the Ashburton Business Estate has invested in the latest Dual

Roll Forming Roo� ng Machine. This is a machine that can produce corrugated iron and � ve rib roo� ng sheets in any length, giving them the opportunity to really customise their jobs. All steel based roo� ng products are produced from New Zealand made Colorsteel® Zincalume ® or Galv steel, and carry warranties of up to 30 years.

We can get four seasons in one day here in the South Island, and while it’s beautiful that doesn’t make it any easier. Choosing what materials and who to use

when building a new or repairing an old shed can be tricky.

At the end of the day it is important to invest in high quality materials and labourers if you don’t want to be out there � xing your shed in four di� erent places after a nor ‘West rolls through.

It’s worth taking the time to ask questions before building your shed or committing to repairs so ask a local roo� ng store for some advice on what they would recommend.

When converting to a dairy farm, upgrading an existing dairy shed, or building a feedpad, su� cient

time for all factors such as design, various ECan and District Council consents, and building of the new dairy shed and associated structures needs to be allowed for. Discussing a proposed conversion or upgrade with an experienced builder twelve months or more before the proposed build date is advisable as build diaries can quickly � ll up for the coming season.

An individual shed plan will be designed that suits your particular farming

operation if you choose to build with Rural Building Solutions.

Options include rotary platform or herringbone, circular or rectangular yard, covered vet platform, underpass, plant room layout, and much more.

Key features of a well designed build include high cow � ow e� ciency, easy to clean surfaces, quality materials and workmanship, low maintenance, and the ability to integrate with modern technological equipment such as electronic drafting or automatic cup removers.

Conversion process

High cow flow efficiency Permanent and low maintenance

Rotary or herringbone designAll surfaces are easy to clean

Call today for an on-site design consultation

For a more efficient farm dairy We are the specialists in milking parlour

design and construction

www.chapmandairy.com

0274 270 557Nigel Hodges

www.ruralbuilding.co.nz

Licensee of


StructureWiseDESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Contact us today for a no obligation quote and

see how we can meet your requirements.

0800 115 000www.structurewise.co.nz

your requirements.

CHCH LOCAL (03) 324 3392

Sick of the mud?Sick of the mud?Sick of the mud?

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WINTERING SHEDS!

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Dairy Focus January 2014 Advertising feature20

Ashburton farm manager Brendon Steer was having a bit of trouble in one of the dairy sheds he runs on

Kintore Farm, with cups slipping o� the cows and poor teat condition.

The shed was noisy from the cups slipping and the cows didn’t want to come in to be milked. “They were being milked with heavy gear and high vacuum – you could see they were uncomfortable,” Mr Steer says.

It is an older shed that Mr Steer inherited and is progressively converting to Waikato Milking Systems’ gear to improve its milking performance.

In the meantime, Mr Steer consulted the vet about the cup slip and teat end damage, and the vet recommended changing the teat cup liners on the milking machine from traditional round liners to the more modern square liners.

Mr Steer got in touch with local dealer Ashburton Milking Systems - the Canterbury agent for Waikato Milking Systems – and ordered in a supply of Waikato’s Quadrant square liners.

“They are brilliant,” Mr Steer says. “Since we changed to the Quadrant liners, milking time has sped up by 30 to 45

minutes. It’s a combination of factors – we also changed the teat cup shells to Waikato’s extra light shells and lowered our vacuum by about 6kpa to get less teat end damage. Then we changed to Waikato pulsators and our milking time has now sped up by an hour at least.

“The cows are more comfortable and milking is a lot quieter in the shed because of less cup slip. After changing to light gear and low vacuum it took a couple of days but once the cows were used to it, they’re happier in the shed. They milk out 10 times quicker then they’re out of there. They love it – it’s brilliant.”

Milk production is up 6 percent so far over last year, and month to date production is up about 12 percent.

“Everyone enjoys milking in the shed and wants to do it now!” Mr Steer says.

Other steps he has taken as he converts this older shed to Waikato gear include putting in a new Waikato milk line and pulsation line, and he has been blown away by the results so far. The shed milks 750 cows. The new shed on the property has a full Waikato plant, milking 850 cows.

With more Waikato gear in the older

shed, the two sheds now have a better chance of competing with each other on production.

Quadrant liners from Waikato Milking Systems are designed to give farmers an extra edge in their milking routine over the more traditional round liners. Outcomes include a more e� cient and productive milking routine.

Farmers who have made the change to Quadrant liners report a range of bene� ts including improved cow teat condition, reduced cup slip and faster milking.

Teat condition is improved because the Quadrant liner gently massages the cows’ teats and protects the teat ends from mechanical pressure. This is important because damaged teat ends provide a place for bacteria to grow which can lead to mastitis. Damaged teats also cause pain and discomfort for the cow that can impair milk let down and can lead to cups being kicked o� .

By switching to square liners, farmers report signi� cantly fewer cracked teat ends and more settled cows. Regular comments from farmers include that general teat condition has improved and mastitis levels are lower – meaning lower

vet bills and higher milk production.

Cup slip is reduced due to the cows being more comfortable and due to the stable liner vacuum provided by the square barrel design.

Farmers using Quadrant liners report their milking is faster because of the improved cow comfort and reduced cup slip. Even if a cup does slip, milking can continue for the rest of the herd as vacuum continues to the rest of the system.

The power of the Quadrant liner is in its unique square barrel design. When collapsed, the square design uses internal ribs to create a small open channel that continues to supply vacuum around the teat into the head of the liner – reducing cup slip.

With a traditional round liner, on the other hand, the round barrel collapses closely around the teat, reducing air� ow to the vacuum chamber. As a result, vacuum is lower in the chamber and cups are more likely to slip.

This makes the Quadrant liner a sensible choice for farmers wanting to get the best possible results.

When converting to a dairy farm, upgrading an existing dairy shed, or building a feedpad, su� cient

time for all factors such as design, various ECan and District Council consents, and building of the new dairy shed and associated structures needs to be allowed for. Discussing a proposed conversion or upgrade with an experienced builder twelve months or more before the proposed build date is advisable as build diaries can quickly � ll up for the coming season.

An individual shed plan will be designed that suits your particular farming

operation if you choose to build with Rural Building Solutions.

Options include rotary platform or herringbone, circular or rectangular yard, covered vet platform, underpass, plant room layout, and much more.

Key features of a well designed build include high cow � ow e� ciency, easy to clean surfaces, quality materials and workmanship, low maintenance, and the ability to integrate with modern technological equipment such as electronic drafting or automatic cup removers.

Conversion process

High cow flow efficiency Permanent and low maintenance

Rotary or herringbone designAll surfaces are easy to clean

Call today for an on-site design consultation

For a more efficient farm dairy We are the specialists in milking parlour

design and construction

www.chapmandairy.com

0274 270 557Nigel Hodges

www.ruralbuilding.co.nz

Licensee of


StructureWiseDESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Contact us today for a no obligation quote and

see how we can meet your requirements.

0800 115 000www.structurewise.co.nz

your requirements.

CHCH LOCAL (03) 324 3392

Sick of the mud?Sick of the mud?Sick of the mud?

Improved:• Profit

• Winter Production

• Effluent Management

• Cow comfort

• Staff Morale

WINTERING SHEDS!

39 Robinson Street, AshburtonPhone 308 8848

email: [email protected]

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One of the country’s most successful primary producers will share

ideas, learning and innovation at the Lincoln University Foundation’s South Island Farmer of the Year winner’s � eld day next month.

Peter Yealands, of Yealands Wine Group, won the prestigious title for the 2013 season and will host the � eld day at the Yealands Estate Winery near Seddon, Marlborough, on Thursday, February 13.

Lincoln University Foundation chairman Ben Todhunter says the informative programme planned for the � eld day will have practical relevance for dairy farmers, as well as primary producers.

“Yealands justi� ably won the farmer of the year title for the way they had looked at all aspects of their business, often � nding better and more environmentally sustainable ways to do them,” Mr Todhunter said. “This experience has direct relevance for dairy farmers who

are facing increasing challenges to ensure their industry is sustainable from a business and environmental impact point of view.”

The � eld day will not focus on winemaking per se, so much as the clever thinking, entrepreneurship, business strategies and people management that have gone into Yealands’ business.

“Participants will get an insight into how Yealands, during a period of only � ve years, has become New Zealand’s sixth largest wine exporter; collecting along the way a � stful of

industry awards, not just for the wines but for such things as tourism, business achievement, environmental management and sustainability,” Mr Todhunter said.

“Whether someone is growing crops, wool or meat or producing milk there will be learning opportunities of real value to their business at this � eld day.

“We encourage all farmers and people from allied primary industries to attend,” Mr Todhunter said.

• Get along to the South Island Farmer of the Year winner’s fi eld day at Yealands Estate Winery, on the corner of Seaview and Reserve roads, Seddon, Marlborough on Thursday, February 13 from

10am to 3.30pm. Attendance (including lunch and refreshments) is free. There is no need to pre-register; just turn up on the day, but to assist with catering if you can let us know how many are coming, it would be appreciated.

Send your intentions to [email protected] marked fi eld day

Calling food producers

Peter Yealands, last year’s South Island Farmer of the Year.

Yealands Wine Group’s new carbon-zero winery at Seddon, Marlborough.

Looking for a smarter way to draft your cows?Get a load of this:

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In the cloud Bluetooth technology meaning no requirement for broadband or a PC at the shed

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We build for industries. Starting with the primary ones.

COMMERCIAL•INDUSTRIAL•RURAL

At Calder Stewart we’ve never forgotten where we

started, building quality farm buildings for the Kiwi

farm industry. And over the course of the last 55

years of involvement, we’ve developed something

of a knack for it. Our dedicated team’s expertise

in constructing custom woolsheds, covered yards,

wintering sheds and state-of-the-art dairy sheds

ensures practicality, quality and a professional

build - matched to your exact farming needs.

We pride ourselves at being a Rural Design &

Build specialist and have gained a considerable

reputation in meeting the needs of many a farmer

over the years. Let us put our expertise to work for

you; call your nearest Calder Stewart Construction

Representative today and see how we can deliver

a farm building that suits.

(03) 307 6130211 Alford Forest Road, Ashburton

Donald Sutton

Premium Grade Construction Materials Used

Best Value-for-Money in the IndustryDurable & Rugged Design is Standard

Over 55 Years Farm Building ExperienceA Rural Design and Build Specialist

www.calderstewart.co.nzTo learn more visit our website:

df028 dairy focus january

Documents

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