Federated Farmers Stand By Members

19 February 2000

PR11/2000

FEDERATED FARMERS STAND BY MEMBERS

South Island farmers who planted Major Plus swede seed this season have found their crops to be mixed with a fodder rape variety.

Federated Farmers are acting to assist farmers through this situation.

The President of Federated Farmers of NZ, Alistair Polson, said today that the national organisation is moving quickly to assist affected farmers.

"The federation, using its 0800 telephone system, has established a database of affected farmers. Federated Farmers officials have met the supplier to work out how to best manage the affected crops, and what assistance may be afforded those properties," said Mr Polson

The immediate priority is to ensure that farmers who have suffered a loss of planned winter feed are able to winter their livestock in the best possible environment. Any issue of compensation will be dealt with in time.

"By telephoning Federated Farmers on 0800 327 646, farmers may record the detail of their situation, enabling the federation to negotiate the best outcome on their behalf."

Swede turnip crops with more than 30% forage rape will now not be able to provide the volume or quality of mid-winter forage.

Those crops containing a high level of forage rape may have to be fed off earlier than projected. As a consequence, farmers will have to provide extra feed or obtain another source of winter feed for their livestock.

ENDS For further information: Alistair Polson 06-342-2853 or 025-370-085 Kevin Geddes 03-307-8148 or 025-203-3437

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