GE or not GE? Farms face genetic crossroads, AgResearch eyes breakthrough in pasture science, and New Zealand’s top Young Farmers face ultimate test. Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather! GE or not GE? Farms face genetic crossroads, New Zealand is on the brink of a potential agricultural revolution, with the government set to unveil its plans for genetic engineering within months. The proposed changes could significantly impact the country's farming practices and export markets. Sources suggest New Zealand may adopt an 'Australia-plus' model, with a two-tiered system for approving genetic modifications. This could streamline the process for certain types of gene editing while maintaining strict controls on others. The focus appears to be on modifying pasture grasses to reduce methane emissions from livestock, a move that could help address environmental challenges. However, there's caution about extending GE to animals, with exceptions possibly made for animal welfare improvements. Industry experts are divided on the benefits. Some, like Prem Maan of Southern Pastures, warn that GE could jeopardise New Zealand's premium export status. Others, including John Caradus from Grasslanz, argue that GE is necessary to meet environmental targets. Dairy NZ has released an information package to prepare farmers for potential changes. The document outlines possible applications of GE in agriculture, including disease resistance in ryegrass and improved nutritional content in pastures. While the government sees GE as a natural progression in agricultural innovation, critics argue that being GE-free has been a valuable selling point for New Zealand exports. As the country awaits the government's announcement, the debate continues on how best to balance innovation, environmental concerns, and market positioning in New Zealand's crucial agricultural sector AgResearch eyes breakthrough in pasture science Meanwhile AgResearch and its partners are pushing the boundaries of agricultural innovation with gene-edited ryegrass trials. They're seeking approval from the Environmental Protection Authority for contained outdoor tests of ryegrass with modified Epichloë endophytes. These endophytes, which live inside the grass, could boost plant protection and reduce the need for chemical pesticides. The trials, if approved, would be the first outdoor tests of genetically modified plants in New Zealand since 2010. Meanwhile, AgResearch's high metabolisable energy ryegrass project is advancing. Scientists have replaced a sesame component with one from rice, addressing potential allergy concerns. This modified ryegrass shows promise in reducing methane emissions and improving animal nutrition. In Australia, field trials are underway for high condensed tannin white clover. This genetically modified clover could cut methane emissions by over 15% and reduce bloat in livestock. These developments represent significant strides in sustainable farming practices, potentially offering solutions to key environmental and productivity challenges in New Zealand's agricultural sector. Meat minds to meet in Wellington Wellington is set to host a major gathering of New Zealand's red meat industry later this month. The annual Red Meat Sector Conference, scheduled for July 22-23 at the Tākina Wellington Convention Centre, will bring together over 300 industry leaders. This key event, organised by the Meat Industry Association with Beef + Lamb New Zealand as a partner, will focus on the theme 'From Our Pasture To Your Plate'. It aims to address emerging topics across the global red meat supply chain. MIA chair Nathan Guy highlights the conference's timing, noting the challenges of weaker global pricing facing sheep and beef farmers and exporters. The event will explore opportunities for innovation, trade, sustainability, and value growth. Notable speakers include Ray Smith from the Ministry for Primary Industries, Patrick Hutchinson of the Australian Meat Industry Council, and international trade expert Stephen Jacobi. Breakout sessions will cover topics ranging from emerging technology to climate change and biosecurity. The conference will culminate in a gala dinner featuring chef Dale Bowie, who will demonstrate innovative techniques blending science and cookery to showcase New Zealand's grass-fed red meat. This gathering serves as a crucial platform for industry engagement, coming at a time when the sector faces significant market challenges and opportunities for innovation New Zealand’s top Young Farmers face ultimate test New Zealand's top young farmers are gearing up for a high-stakes showdown at the Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final in Hamilton. The three-day event, kicking off on Thursday, will push contestants to their limits in a series of challenging tasks. Seven grand finalists will ...
