Internal parasites and drench resistance are serious threats to livestock production. To help farmers, B+LNZ Research has launched livestock parasite management groups across the country to promote best practices and improve control strategies.
Background
Internal parasitic diseases limit livestock production and affect animal health and welfare. Drenches are failing on an increased number of farms with farmers needing support to increase their knowledge and confidence in parasite management to make changes on farm in the face of drench resistance.
To help address this, B+LNZ ran a pilot project to establish a livestock parasite management group (LPMG) in the Wairarapa as part of a set of initiatives in a wider livestock parasite management campaign. The purpose of the LPMG is to promote good practice established by Wormwise, as well as utilising other B+LNZ resources for improving animal production and management.
Based on the success and learnings from the model developed during the pilot, B+LNZ is supporting additional LPMG groups around NZ that will run for three years. Participating farmers will co-fund this initiative through their contributions to their regional LPMG.
Benefits to farmers
- Enhanced knowledge: Access to expert guidance and best practices for managing internal parasites, helping to address the growing issue of drench resistance.
- Improved management: Tools and strategies from Wormwise and B+LNZ resources will support better decision-making and more effective parasite management on your farm.
- Collaborative support: Joining a regional LPMG provides a platform for sharing experiences and solutions with other farmers facing similar challenges.
- Potential for continued support: If the groups are successful, there is an opportunity for ongoing support and resources through an extended programme.
B+LNZ Project Lead
Cara Brosnahan, Principal Scientist – Animal Health Research
Farmers involved
Eight regionally based groups with up to 100 farmers involved.
Facilitators
- Sara Sutherland, Wairarapa
- Greg Tattersfield, Gisborne
- Simon Marshall, Dannevirke
- Richard Lee, Hawke’s Bay
- Jermey Leigh, Waikato
- Garth Riddle, Northland
- Sarah Williams, North Canterbury
- Rochelle Smith, Southland
Expected end date
October 2027