Farming News

When Allan Roulston started planting trees on his Hillend property, it was all about necessity.

Fonterra's announcement last week of a 15c reduction in its payout forecast for the 2011-12 season might not be the only revision for the season, Federated Farmers dairy chairman Willy Leferink says.

Wool prices strengthened for most types as buyers at the wool sale in Christchurch yesterday were active in securing good volumes for scouring and prompt shipping.

Farmer owned-milk cooperative Fonterra said it had revised its payout forecast for the 2011/12 season to $6.75 to 6.85 per kg of milk solids, down 15 cents from is previous forecast, due to declining commodity prices and the stronger New Zealand dollar.

It is a hunting competition with a difference.

I'm always justifying farm expenses in $100 bites - because that's what a pair of work boots cost or, this year, what a lamb is worth.