Organic dairy and pastoral farmers in good heart

Organic dairy and pastoral farmers in good heart

The Organic Dairy and Pastoral Group, which represents the majority of organic dairy and pastoral farmers, held a well-attended AGM in Gore on Friday March 14. The programme included field trips to the Retro Organic cheese factory, and Grant and Alison Kingsbury's organic sheep and beef farm, both near Mataura.

South Otago farmer Glenn Mead was re-elected Chair of the ODPG. Highlights in his Chair's Report for 2013-2014 included the ODPG successfully negotiating with Fonterra for better contract conditions for organic dairy farmers, and progress with getting more organic meat into the export market.

Commenting on the success of the day, Glenn Mead said:

“The mood of the farmers was positive, and there was lots of questioning and discussion during the AGM, the speakers' presentations, and on the field trips. Although we still face big challenges (especially in establishing robust marketing and distribution systems for our products) organic dairy and pastoral farmers are in good heart. They are enjoying their work and the contribution it makes not only to their own livelihoods, but also to safe, healthy and sustainable lives for others.”

ENDS

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