Jagger has a governance role with genetics company Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) and Co-operative Business NZ, as well as Marsden Maritime Holdings and the Whangarei Agricultural and Pastoral Society.
"Dairy farmers contribute levies, so it makes sense that they see a return. Many farmers tell me they don't see much of it! I will champion an enduring red meat sector that leverages NZ's competitive advantages which will enable greater market opportunities.
"This election is not just about the beef and lamb industry, this is about the red-meat sector so dairy farmers should register to vote."
BREEDING
He says he wants to see an increase in the price that dairy farmers get for culled cows but that will involve a change in thinking around breeding.
"We currently breed for dairy or beef. But if we could breed for both — with short gestation, easy calving and better-quality meat — there would be a greater return for farmers."
He said breeds such as Herefords, Angus and Wagyu were examples of animals with good dairy yields and high-quality meat.
In Northland, and across NZ, the Friesian/Jersey cross is the most popular breed for dairy, but it's not the best for meat.
As well as being on the Beef Advisory Group for the Beef and Lamb Genetics Group, Jagger and his wife Helen operate a dairy and beef farm in Whangarei.
"This continues a rich Jagger legacy of Angus herds. I can walk in both worlds and I can bring that dual experience to the Beef + Lamb NZ table."
PROFIT
In Northland, and across NZ, he said, profitability was down for beef farmers with land conversion in decline from beef and sheep, to dairy.
"This pushes beef herds into marginal quality land while the fertile land is gobbled up by dairy farms. Continued investment by Beef + Lamb NZ, through research and development and added value, can help provide farmers with a solid strategy for the sector."
He said other challenges in the sector included the price of wool and the impact of synthetic carpets and materials.
"Wool has had its lunch eaten, similar to the red meat sector with alternative protein products. We need to better educate consumers about the value of quality — whether it be wool or meat."
He said it was a strategically important time for beef and dairy voices to be heard.
"This is a time where strong governance and diversity can bring about the positive outcomes we need in the areas of social and political pressure affecting our social licence to operate, as well as pending legislation, environmental, animal welfare, biosecurity and market access challenges, and the need for better education around succession plans, technology uses and profit opportunities."
BEEF + LAMB
Voting papers will be posted on February 12 but, to be able to vote, a livestock farmer must be registered, have owned at least 250 sheep, or 50 beef cattle, or 100 dairy cattle, on June 30, 2017.
Voting papers must be returned by March 16, with internet voting also available. Call 0800 666 032 or email iro@electionz.com to check if you're registered.
