Addressing dairy farmers at a recent DairyNZ Farmers’ Forum, Melissa highlighted her optimism in dairy being able to position well, while responding to the changing farming landscape.
Melissa will also be presenting at the upcoming Canterbury Farmers’ Forum event on May 9, where farmers can hear more about shifting consumer expectations and technological trends that are facing the sector in the next 10 years.
“We are coming into a time of turbulence, where we are under pressure to reduce our emissions. Part of this challenge is looking at what premiums we can add to milk, to gain a higher price and provide what the customer is asking for,” says Melissa.
“Our farmers produce artisan milk at volume. This is milk that is from grass-fed cows, in the open country, and produced by farmers that care for their animals, people, communities and country.
“We need to make these benefits and natural-ness at the forefront of our products, to differentiate us as we compete in a world where milk will be made cheaper and better by technology in the future.
“Dairy is the backbone to our economy, and we produce milk well. But now is the time to prepare for the disruption that is coming in the next 10 years and consider how you will shift to differentiate your individual businesses.”
DairyNZ chairman Jim van der Poel also emphasised that New Zealand continues to contribute significantly to the economy, generating $22 billion in export earnings in the 2021/22 season.
“Our dairy products today are highly valued by our global customers. They know them to be safe, of high quality and produced to a high standard,” Jim says.
“This was no fluke. New Zealand dairy farmers are some of the most innovative in the world. We have always had challenges, but over the years a combination of farmer innovation and science has driven us forward and will continue to help as we face different challenges.”
Farmers near Canterbury are encouraged to register for the Farmers’ Forum event on May 9, where they will hear directly from Melissa Clark-Reynolds and a range of talented scientists and sector experts.
The event will include practical information sessions discussing improving workplace productivity and attractiveness, along with understanding how the herb plantain can help reduce nitrogen loss.
For more information, the full programme and registration, visit dairynz.co.nz/farmersforum. The event is free for farmers and their farm teams to attend.
Canterbury Farmers’ Forum
Ashburton Events Centre, Ashburton
Tuesday, 9 May 2023
Register online at dairynz.co.nz/farmersforum
