Farmers get 'more clout'

Neil Heather

A Rotorua farmer supports moves by Beef + Lamb New Zealand to work more closely with Federated Farmers on environmental issues.

The two organisations announced recently they would be joining forces to give a stronger voice for sheep and beef farmers in the regions.

"Federated Farmers has an excellent regional network," says Beef + Lamb New Zealand chief executive Scott Champion.

"Rather than duplicate that, we've reached an agreement to use its resources on regional environmental issues."

Paradise Valley sheep farmer Neil Heather says there is a lot of apathy in the sector and having Federated Farmers on board will give more clout to many sheep and beef farmers.

"There's been a bit of pressure to get the organisation involved more in environmental issues on our behalf. Federated Farmers has more resources than Beef + Lamb so it should work in our favour."

Beef + Lamb New Zealand has a dedicated environment extension manager to provide sheep and beef farmers with the tools to manage their farms more sustainably.