1. The New Zealand Association of Ruminant Nutritionists Brief overview for NZFMA meeting, 18 July 2012 Dr Julian Waters www.nzarn.org

2. Introduction Early 2009 – Informal occasional meetings of small group of nutritionists Mid-2010 – Agree to form Ruminant Nutritionist Association Early 2011 – Incorporated not-for-profit association formed

3. Original Core Objectives To promote an understanding of the basics of ruminant nutrition To promote putting good ruminant nutrition principles into practice, and to define good practice To improve efficiency and profitability of the ruminant industry through improved nutrition To integrate members’ ideas, thoughts and advice with other industry groups To fit ruminant nutrition in as a key part of the holistic approach to improving farm performance To promote continuing professional development To become the primary point of contact regarding ruminant nutrition matters To provide a forum for exchange of views and information between members

4. Governance Agreed that providing specific nutritional advice would not be within the remit of the Association Governance structure ensures that the Association’s actions are not influenced by individual vested interests within the membership

5. Membership Membership of NZARN is open to all practicing New Zealand-based ruminant nutritionists with two year’s practical experience Membership – 16 Consulting – 8 Commercial – 3 Research – 1 Vet – 28 Total

6. Website Limited at present Discussion forums in members’ section Articles of interest in public section – not done yet www.nzarn.org

7. Aims on Website Provide a forum to: – Discuss topical issues and seek a consensus for dissemination to the industry – Share experiences in the field to raise the standard of practice amongst members – Provide a reference point for government, industry bodies and commercial companies, and address public concerns – Be involved in dissemination of accurate information to farmers through involvement in training provision, press releases and involvement in conferences and meetings – Encourage the next generation of ruminant nutritionists

8. Meetings Originally quarterly, now three per year Cover topics on previous slide Usually an invited speaker Venue & speaker costs often sponsored by commercial company or other organisation Met with feed testing laboratories to discuss feed testing & reporting

9. Relevance to Feed Manufacturers? Request to assist rewriting of compound feeding booklet NZFMA Booklet.pdf Members decided it would not be possible to produce such a NZARN-endorsed booklet Any such publication would have to present a balanced view of all feeding options, not just identify benefits associated with offering manufactured feed

10. Future NZARN is new & evolving Run by volunteers Diverse interests group Silage competitions? Ability to raise profile?