Gene tech and dairy farming – what’s next for NZ farmers | Ep. 85

In Episode 85 of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan chats with Dr Bruce Thorrold, DairyNZ’s Chief Science Advisor, about gene technologies in relation to the dairy sector. With the New Zealand Government updating its laws on gene technology, Bruce explains what this could mean for farmers, from reducing environmental impact to increasing productivity. He also discusses the opportunities and risks, and shares the questions which are top of mind for dairy farmers as this topic comes back into focus. This episode provides a clear and balanced look at how gene technologies could shape the future of dairy farming in New Zealand.

For more information about this topic

DairyNZ webinar for dairy farmers:

Shaping the future: New Zealand’s gene technology reform

For the first time in over 20 years, New Zealand’s gene technology laws are getting a major overhaul. Greater access to gene technologies presents both opportunities and risks for the dairy sector. Join DairyNZ in this webinar to explore how these reforms could impact farmers in the future and how you can participate in this important government process.

Available on two dates: 

1. Monday 14 October 2024, 11.30am-12.30pm. Register here 
2. Tuesday 15 October 2024, 7pm-8pm. Register here 

Resources:

• Gene technologies | DairyNZ 
• Opinion: Gene technologies - time for a change - NZ Herald
• DairyNZ engaging with farmers as Govt moves to update gene technology rules 
• Gene technology regulation | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
• Pasture biotechnology: Breeding for a better future - AgResearch

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction
• 3:00 What's gene technology?
• 5:13 Where is NZ at with gene tech use?
• 6:12 How does it compare with the rest of the world?
• 7:25 Opportunities for the NZ dairy sector from greater access to gene tech?
• 11:58 What risks might the NZ dairy sector have to navigate?
• 14:15 What is DairyNZ’s position in regard to gene technology?
• 15:56 What are other farmers thinking about this?
• 16:35 What could the dairy sector look like in 5-10 years with new gene tech in the mix?
• 17:44 What are the wider possibilities for gene tech?
• 19:20 Episode summary