13 Mar 2012

Lower South Island farmers make most of feedline service

6:30 am on 13 March 2012

Farmers in the southern half of the South Island are making the most of a recently reactivated feedline information service, to help fill a potential shortfall in winter feed.

Federated Farmers re-opened the service two weeks ago, to connect those with feed to spare with those who are short in Southland and South Otago.

The federation was responding to concerns that some farmers there could run short of feed after an abnormally dry summer in the south stunted vital winter feed crops.

Its adverse events spokesperson, David Rose, says most listings of feed for sale come from Canterbury and Central Otago, and include baleage, grain, straw and grazing.

He says the service will remain open as long as there's demand.

The number for farmers to call is 0800 376 844.