Media Release

11 September 2013

South Island farmers hit hard by storm

Federated Farmers is working with the Rural Support Trust to coordinate a response to the severe weather event in the South Island.

“Farmers in Canterbury have been hit especially hard, with power outages, farm equipment being blown over and trees being wiped out,” says Katie Mile, Federated Farmers Adverse Event Spokesperson.

“We are particularly concerned about animal welfare with power outages on dairy farms. It means farmers are unable to milk their stock or get water to them.  As cows are coming up to their peak milk production they will be particularly thirsty, so water access is crucial.

“These power outages will also affect dairy company’s collection times from farms. Dairy companies are keeping in touch with farmers to coordinate a response in this regard.

“Access to generators will be fundamental to getting dairy farmers through the next few days. Federated Farmers has activated their 0800 line (327 646) for farmers to communicate who has access to generators and who needs them.

“Farmers can also phone their local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254 for advice and support.

“Farmers must be particularly careful around how they go about cleaning up. The impact is monumental, with trees over power lines and fences, and the damage to pivots, the recovery will take some time,” concluded Ms Milne.

ENDS

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