New Zealand: Government to Boost Organic Growers

Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton (picture) has announced that more than $ 2 million will be provided in this year's budget to cover three years of funding for an advisory service for organic farmers and growers and for those converting to organic production. The advisory service funding will be in addition to a $ 1.5 million government grant provided as bridging finance for a new national body for the organic sector. Green Party organic spokesperson Sue Kedgley says the hope is to have 200 farmers a year converting from conventional production. Organic grower and retailer Jim Kebble says the need to increase the number of organic growers is urgent because stores are finding it increasingly difficult to get organically-grown fruit and vegetables.

Organic grower and retailer Jim Kebble says the need to increase the number of organic growers is urgent because stores are finding it increasingly difficult to get organically-grown fruit and vegetables, reports the Organic Advantage (www.bfa.com.au).

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