R&D investment driving sector gains

Meat & Wool New Zealand’s R&D investment is driving sector gains alongside Government

The Government’s budget allocation to science has been welcomed today by Meat & Wool New Zealand as it looks to drive forward its investment in innovation for the sheep and beef sector.

Meat & Wool New Zealand Chairman, Mike Petersen said the organisation invests around $11 million annually in research and extension projects to enable farmers to be able to adapt and meet challenges, improve productivity or gain an advantage in the market through superior products.

“Government funding, in partnership with farmers and industry, is vitally important because it allows us to grow the overall investment.”

Mr Petersen said for Meat & Wool New Zealand, this leverage delivered a significant portfolio of $20 million to pastoral sector research.

This money is used in a range of programmes targeted at sustainable land and environment management, improved forage and feed efficiency, developing more productive and efficient cattle and sheep, and reducing the impact of internal parasites.

Mr Petersen said Pastoral 21 for instance, was a collaboration between industry and government, driven by investment from Meat & Wool New Zealand, DairyNZ, Fonterra, and FRST and it targeted animal productivity gains across whole farm systems.

“This sort of investment is critical for the future of the New Zealand economy as we continue to enhance our reputation as a respected producer of quality food products, sought after by the world’s most discerning consumers.”

ENDS