DINZ Ups Focus Farms Funding

10-09-2007 | webmaster

The DINZ board has decided to significantly increase its financial contribution to the deer focus farms, following discussions at the Deer Industry Conference in May.

Four new focus farms are being established around the country this year, augmenting two that have been operating in Otago and Southland with Sustainable Farming Fund support.

DINZ initially offered to provide dollar for dollar funding up to a maximum of $15,000 for each of the new farms. However, this has now been upped to outright provision of up to $30,000 for each one, subject to the employment of a professional facilitator, good quality information transfer and coverage of issues such as sustainability and animal welfare. DINZ Production Manager Tony Pearse said it was recognised that the focus farms support the industry’s venison strategy, for example by helping farmers consistently produce heavier fawns earlier.

Canterbury branch chair Ed Noonan, who led the discussions about funding, says he’s very happy with the outcome and thanks the board for the generous support.

Farms, facilitators and local committees have been sought for the new focus farms, to be located in the north and centre of the North Island, Canterbury and South Canterbury. These will be confirmed shortly. Field days will be held at all of the new farms in October.

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