E-diary notices: 4 September 2026

// B+LNZ

Complete our sheep genetics survey, Resources available for lambing in bad weather, Apply now for Primary ITO Production Management course

image of NNI farmer council with mascot

This page contains this week’s e-diary national notices. 

If there’s something you want to know specific to your region, contact your local extension manager – find their details here

To sign up to e-diaries, create/login to a B+LNZ online account, go to ‘Account settings’ and select the e-diary box – you’ll be asked to pick which region/s you want to receive e-diaries for.  

See elsewhere on our website for other e-diary info: 

This week’s notices: 

Dairy Beef Communities of Practice

Facilitated by DairyNZ and B+LNZ, Dairy Beef Communities of Practice bring together farmers, calf rearers and finishers to work through real challenges together. Their work is shared more widely through demonstration days and extension resources, so others can learn from their experiences too. DairyNZ and B+LNZ are currently gauging interest in establishing groups around the country. Farmers interested in joining a group can register their interest, and we will be in touch when one is forming in their area. Find out more.

Complete our sheep genetics survey

B+LNZ’s genetics team invites farmers, breeders and rural professionals to complete a short survey on the use of genetic tools and information in NZ’s sheep industry. The survey explores awareness, confidence and use of genetic tools such as breeding values, indexes and nProve. Insights will help inform B+LNZ’s genetics programmes and activities. The survey takes 5–10 minutes to complete and responses are anonymous. Take the survey.

Resources available for lambing in bad weather

Lambing is now underway, and it’s a good idea to have a lambing kit prepared to give your lambs the best possible chance of survival during bad weather. We suggest including a waterproof backpack or container containing lamb covers, iodine spray, bearing equipment, dextrose solution and syringe, gloves, veterinary lubricant, a towel and a thermos of warm water. More information on assembling a lambing kit and a factsheet can be found in this story on lamb revival.

Apply now for Primary ITO Production Management course

Primary ITO's Production Management Level 5 programme starts in October and is available nationwide. Designed for experienced farmers, the course focuses on boosting production, improving business performance and increasing financial returns. Study from anywhere in NZ with support from an employer or mentor. Learn more and enquire on Primary ITO’s website here. B+LNZ supports Primary ITO.