Farmers need to be aware of new bobby calf regulations

MPI's Penny Timmer-Arends has attended numerous field days and workshops to discuss the new bobby calf regulations with those affected across the supply chain. Photo / Supplied

The Ministry for Primary Industries is asking farmers to ensure they are ready for the new bobby calf shelter and loading regulations that will take effect on August 1.

"We want to make sure everyone is well aware and prepared," said Paul Dansted, MPI's director animal and animal products.

"Calves need to be provided with shelter that keeps them warm and dry, and loading facilities that allow them to walk on to trucks."

Seven new regulations in total were announced last calving season. Four came in to force in August last year, with three more for spring calving farms to apply this season. They require that:

* Young calves be slaughtered as soon as possible when they arrive at slaughter premises, and within 24 hours of the last feed on the farm;

* Shelter be provided for young calves before and during transportation, and at points of sale or slaughter;

* Loading and unloading facilities be provided and used when young calves are transported for sale or slaughter, or as a result of sale.

"Ultimately, the regulations are about protecting the welfare of calves," Mr Dansted said.

"Last year we saw a significant reduction in problems with bobby calves, and we thank everyone across the supply chain who contributed to that. We are keen to see more improvements this year once all of the regulations are in play."

"The shelter and loading facility regulations don't give specific building requirements, so this allows farmers, saleyard operators, processors and transporters to find a solution that works for them."

The new regulations also required calves to be slaughtered as soon as possible on arrival at the processing plant, the Meat Industry Association having played a big part in putting systems in place to track when the calves were last fed and collected.

Communicating the new regulations had been a considerable industry-wide effort, Mr Dansted added. MPI was working with stakeholders across the bobby calf supply chain to reach as many affected people as possible, including working with DairyNZ, Federated Farmers, the Meat Industry Association, dairy companies, transport companies, stock agents and saleyard managers, and veterinarians.

"Collectively we have pushed out information through field days, workshop events across the country, training, rural and professional publications and newspapers, newsletters and emails, on-farm resources, web and social media content," he said.

¦Further information is at www.mpi.govt.nz/calves, and for advice on loading, handling and facilities go to www.dairynz.co.nz/calves