Federated Farmers booming in North Otago

Federated Farmers booming in North Otago

A lack of a political voice for the rural community has seen farmers flock to Federated Farmers, says North Otago President Ray Fox.

North Otago Federated Farmer's have surpassed their 2002 membership total with 7 months of the year to run and represent approximately 75% of local farmers.

"Farmers recognise the value Federated Farmers membership at both a local and national level, said Mr Fox.

"Thanks to Federated Farmers the Waitaki District Council have made changes to funding policy and rating as well as transparency that now see farmers paying on average $2000 less for rates. The Council now has one of the most itemised rate breakdowns in the country so farmers can see exactly what they are paying for each service.

"The Federation is continuing to negotiate with DOC and Council on farmer's behalf in regard to significant natural areas (SNAs) on private land. Federation staff and elected representatives have put an immense amount of work into a district wide survey to inform every farmer who is potentially affected by SNAs.

"The Federation has also negotiated an exemption for freehold land following Tenure Review recognising that this negotiation provides an alternative mechanism for the protection of biodiversity on private land.

"These are just a few examples which illustrate that membership of the Federation is a well priced investment."

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