Time to look at a change in farm systems in the face of higher diesel? // David Birkett, Federated Farmers

This episode features a detailed discussion on current fuel and supply chain issues affecting New Zealand farmers, including price forecasts, supply challenges, and adaptive farming practices. David Birkett shares his insights on how farmers are managing costs with a move to sustainable farming adaptations amid high diesel prices. "Farmers need to push costs up the value chain," says David Birkett, Federated Farmers Arable Chair. "The cost of fuel and inputs will erode any profits from this year." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the show and guest00:28 Current fuel issues and advice for farmers01:25 Fuel demand, price forecasts, and supply smoothing02:21 Regional supply challenges and distribution problems03:19 Seasonal demand changes and winter impact03:48 Government support and essential services for agriculture05:05 Impact of fuel prices on food prices and consumer impact05:54 Challenges faced by arable farmers during harvest06:52 Farmers' concerns: supply and costs07:47 Changes in farming practices and rotational strategies08:35 Fertilizer supply and rising costs09:30 Global fertiliser prices and future planning10:54 Farm system reviews and sustainable practices11:23 Low input farming systems and nutrient management12:20 Tools for reducing input costs and environmental impact13:13 Closing remarks and support for farmers  Resources Federated Farmers New Zealand - https://www.fedfarm.org.nz/ CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.