
'Sheep of the Future' transformational for NZ sheep farming
Breeding sheep that produce less methane, at Taupō and Kerikeri.
Alastair and Ann Reeves farm sheep and beef on Reeves Farms in the western Waikato, the fourth generation on the land. They breed rams for parasite tolerance and low methane, and the flock's methane output has dropped over the past few years. They were the Waikato Regional Supreme Winners in 2024.
The story looks at the breeding programme, the native and exotic planting at the head of the catchment, the fenced and planted stream corridors, and the possum control the Reeves run with neighbours across a wide area. It also describes their role in setting up the West Waikato Coastal Community Catchment Group.

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