20-07-10: Drought Recovery in Northland.
Plenty of rain has fallen recently but the longer term impact of the drought will be with us for a while yet.
The yellow paddocks and parched hillsides may well be a memory thanks to periods of heavy rainfall however farmers now need to press ahead with recovery plans and make sure that they maximise the opportunities that lay ahead. The drought may be over but the impacts are not.
According to the Northland Drought Committee, focus should be on building pasture cover, getting livestock in good productive condition and ensuring that financial arrangements are in place for the next 12 months. Government assistance is still available for those who are feeling the pinch. Rural Assistance Payments and visits from Ag Recovery Facilitators can help farmers to work through their recovery options.
The Northland Drought Committee's magazine 'Extreme Weather Update' has been an excellent source of information. However farmers are now busy with calving and lambing so the last copy will be published later this week. Much of the information may still prove useful, so back copies can be viewed from the links on this website. Case studies might prove especially useful - highlight specific farms and how they are dealing with the recovery.
NZ Landcare Trust Regional Coordinator and RST-Northland Recovery Facilitator Helen Moodie says
"There is plenty of winter left to come and if it does turn nasty and things get tough 'The Rural Support Trust' team of Ag Recovery Facilitators are available to assist."
Give them a call on 0800 778 667. They can also help advise on Rural Assistance Payments if required.
