Leading soil expert calls for shake-up in our fertiliser industry, EPA approves new weapon against invasive Chilean Needle Grass, and new campaign tackles rising Leptospirosis cases in rural New Zealand. 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! Leading soil expert calls for shake-up in our fertiliser industry Renowned soil fertility expert Dr Gordon Rajendram is calling for urgent changes in New Zealand's fertiliser industry. He argues that a lack of competition has led to high prices, limited innovation, and outdated products. Dr Rajendram points out that the market is dominated by a few key players, resulting in restricted choices and consistently high costs for farmers. He notes that many companies are still selling products unchanged since the 1950s. Current fertiliser prices remain above pre-COVID levels, with super phosphate at around $425 per tonne and urea at $795 per tonne. These high costs are pushing farmers to seek alternatives and question the environmental impact of traditional fertilisers. Dr Rajendram draws a comparison with the dairy industry, where competition has driven advancements in product quality and efficiency. He argues that the fertiliser sector could benefit from a similar approach. The soil specialist emphasises the urgent need for industry transformation to avoid becoming obsolete. He believes that increased competition would lead to better products, fairer prices, and ultimately strengthen New Zealand's vital agricultural sector. As farmers grapple with economic and environmental challenges, Dr Rajendram's call for innovation in the fertiliser industry underscores the need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions in New Zealand agriculture. EPA approves new weapon against invasive Chilean Needle Grass The Environmental Protection Authority has given the green light to release a rust fungus as a biocontrol agent against Chilean needle grass, an aggressive weed threatening our agricultural sector. This invasive plant, first identified in the 1920s, poses significant risks to livestock welfare and farm productivity. Its seeds can cause severe harm to animals, including blindness, while dense growth reduces pasture quality and grazing areas. Dr. Chris Hill from the EPA explains that the approved fungus, Uromyces pencanus, specifically targets Chilean needle grass. It's expected to slow the weed's spread by attacking its foliage and reducing growth and seed production. The decision follows a thorough evaluation process, including public consultation and engagement with mana whenua. Testing indicates minimal risk to native plants, animals, or human health. Current management methods for Chilean needle grass, such as destocking or herbicide use, are often challenging and expensive for farmers. If left unchecked, the weed could potentially cost the sector up to $1.16 billion in lost production. The grass is well-established in regions including Hawke's Bay, Marlborough, Auckland, and Canterbury. This new biocontrol approach offers hope for more effective and sustainable management of the weed. This approval aligns with recent EPA decisions allowing biocontrol agents for other invasive plants, reflecting a growing trend towards ecological solutions in pest management. As this innovative control method rolls out, it represents a significant step in protecting New Zealand's agricultural lands and livestock from this costly and harmful invasive species. New campaign tackles rising Leptospirosis cases in rural New Zealand. Rural Women New Zealand has partnered with Massey University to raise awareness and funds for combating leptospirosis, a serious health concern in rural areas. This initiative comes as cases of the disease are increasing, particularly in flood-affected regions. RWNZ National President Gill Naylor says that New Zealand has one of the highest rates of leptospirosis among countries with temperate climates. The organisation has committed to making this their national project until June 2025, mobilising members across the country. Professor Jackie Benschop from Massey University reports that last year saw 170 notified cases, predominantly in rural areas. However, she warns this number likely underrepresents the true scale of the problem, as many cases go undiagnosed due to similarities with other illnesses like COVID-19 or flu. Benschop emphasises the importance of prevention through good farm management practices. These include vaccinating livestock, maintaining hygiene, wearing protective equipment, controlling effluent and waterways, and educating staff and visitors about the risks. The campaign also stresses the need for early medical intervention. Rural residents feeling unwell are urged to seek help promptly, mentioning leptospirosis as a possible cause to their doctor and requesting testing. Funds raised through this ...
