12 | Otto aims to amplify rural voices The disconnect between policymakers and the farming community is a recurring theme. Karen Phelps DAIRY PEOPLE » Otto Dogterom - North Otago Federated Farmers Otto Dogterom, the newly appointed Federated Farmers Provincial President for North Otago, is on a mission to strengthen the voice of farmers in an increasingly challenging regulatory environment. With a wealth of experience spanning three decades in New Zealand’s agricultural sector, Otto brings a unique perspective to his role, emphasising the need for balanced policies and improved communication between farmers and policymakers. “I hope to encourage more farmers to become members of Federated Farmers. It’s basically the only voice for farmers that the politicians listen to,” Otto says, highlighting the importance of Federated Farmers in advocating for rural communities. Otto’s concerns primarily revolve around local and regional council plans, which he believes could have significant implications for farmers. He points to the Waitaki District Council’s long-term plan, which proposes overlays on private farmland, as an example of policy-making that lacks sufficient farmer input. “Even though there was a lot of consultation, it wasn’t with farmers,” Otto explains. “I’ve been continuing to advocate and sometimes I think I am making progress and other times not.” This disconnect between policymakers and the farming community is a recurring theme in Otto’s critique. He expresses frustration with the Otago Regional Council’s proposed new rules in the Land and Water Regional Plan, arguing that they fail to account for recent improvements in farming practices. “This will mean more compliance coming at farmers, but the plan is based on water sampling taken between 2012-2017, and they haven’t taken into account the improvements already made. The rural community is not getting acknowledged for the work it has done.” His concerns extend beyond local issues to the broader challenges facing New Zealand’s agricultural sector. He worries that the accumulation of regulations and restrictions could make farming less attractive to future generations. “What worries me is how unattractive being a farmer will be for the next generation. For the future of New Zealand, it is important to keep the profession attractive,” he says. Despite these challenges, Otto remains passionate about farming and its importance to New Zealand’s economy and communities. His own journey in agriculture began in Holland and led him to New Zealand in 1993, where he has built a successful enterprise comprising multiple dairy and beef farms across Otago. Otto’s experience as an employer and business partner has reinforced his belief in the sector’s potential to create opportunities. “It’s about creating better futures for other people as well. I find that hugely satisfying,” he says. In his new role, Otto aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural New Zealand, helping the public understand the vital role of farming in the country’s economy and daily life. He sees Federated Farmers as a crucial conduit for disseminating information to policymakers and uniting farmers to effectively communicate their perspectives. While acknowledging the need for environmental stewardship, Otto advocates for a more balanced approach to policy-making. “The health of the wai for example has a higher priority than the economic wellbeing of the rural community. Both need to be part of the considerations.” As he takes on his new role with Federated Farmers, Otto remains optimistic about the future of farming in New Zealand. Despite current hurdles he continues to invest in improving his farms, including converting water line and k-line irrigation to centre pivot to make more efficient use of water, and believes in the resilience of the agricultural sector. “I still think I’ve got the best job in the world.” Otago Transport Ltd. 17 Tiverton St, Palmerston Ph: 03 465 1147 | Email: carey.turner@xtra.co.nz Contact Carey 027 458 5642 Specialists in... General Stock | Bulk Cartage | Stock Haulage Fertiliser Spreading | Sawdust | Wood Chips Proudly supporting Otto Dogterom - North Otago 3 Usk St, Oamaru 9400 | www.nops.co.nz | 03 434 7766 Large Solar farms Solar for Full Dairy Shed systems Solar for Houses All other Electrical needs. CALECT SOLAR Call 0800 360063 | Email calum@calect.co.nz David Graham 027 474 8325 dave@irritech.co.nz Roger Simpson 027 474 8324 rog@irritech.co.nz • 16B Connelly Way, Cromwell • admin@irritech.co•.nz • Agricultural irrigation design • Stock water design and supply • Supply of irrigators and materials • Project management • Installation of system • Commissioning Irritech Otago are happy to be working alongside Otto Dogterom
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