Farm consultant Bob Thomson says the seminars will focus on practical steps sheep & beef farmers can take to reduce the impact of the drought on their farm business.

“It’s been 28 years since Northland has experienced a drought of this scale, and we reckon it’s worth getting together to share experience” he says.

The seminars are a mix of interactive workshops, short technical sessions and experiences from past droughts, with updates on some of the new supplementary feed options.

The seminars will also include details on drought assistance available to farmers from the government, including tax provisions, stress counselling and Working for Families assistance.

Drought response seminars will be held in the following locations (look for field-day signs):

Taipa, February 2, 10am-1pm. Dennis & Rachelle O’Callaghan’s woolshed, 4365 State Highway 10, Aurere (just north of Taipa)

Pakaraka, February 3, 10am-1pm. Pakaraka Hall, SH1

Waiotira, February 3, 3pm-6pm. Waiotira Golf Club, 100 Mititai Rd, Waiotira

Rural Support Trust co-ordinator Helen Moodie says that farmers who can't make the seminars can still access support and advice on coping with drought by contacting her on 09 430 0943 or 021 354 605.