Northland Drought Continues.
In January the Government acted on a recommendation from 'Rural Support Trust (RST) Northland' and formally announced that the region was in the grip of a drought. After three months the situation is getting worse with water restrictions and fire risks adding to the problems.
This is a serious problem for farmers throughout the region. NIWA figures indicate exceptionally low soil moisture levels and this will get worse if weather forecasts of insufficient rain prove correct.
The problem has been compounded by the the very cold October that restricted early growth, reducing the potential of many crops and limited quantities of hay/silage available.
Farmers must act now.
It is crucial that farmers take a proactive approach and respond to the drought conditions quickly. Many farmers are already adjusting their management regime and it is not too late for others to act:
- write a plan, and review it regularly
- cull cows
- feed supplements
- sell trading stock
- graze areas with limited water supply first
- seek assistance, if needed
Farmers should stay informed.
Information is an important asset and the RST along with other industry specific agencies, can help. Information is available from:
- Rural Support Trust - Northland
- Fonterra
- DairyNZ
- Meat and Wool
Appropriate on-farm actions will change over time in response to shifting circumstances. RST-Northland will be updating farmers regularly using local and national media. It is expected that further on-farm field days and workshops will be available.
Assistance can take many forms:
- farm planning and management advice
- workshops and field days
- rural assistance payments
- tax relief provision
- benefit advice
- counseling services
For further information contact 'RST-Northland' Recovery Facilitator Helen Moodie:-
tel: 09 430 0954
email: drought@landcare.org.nz
