Mycoplasma bovis and cattle races.
Between Thames and Paeroa alone there are about 30 cattle races that cross our RailTrail cycleway. Currently and throughout our wet winters this means that we cyclists cross substantial numbers of what are virtual rivers of soggy cow poo.
A question that concerned me was the possibility that we cyclists may contribute to the spread of the disease should any one local farm along the trail become infected.
It seems bovine urine and faeces are not considered to be particularly dangerous disease vectors for M. bovis, but the bacteria do survive for some time in damp habitats, even straw bedding, so there is surely some risk. All it may take is a single coughing cow to infect a single crossing that may then spread the disease to all properties along the trail.
However, it then occured to me that there are many other cattle races that cross public roads all over the plains. If cow faeces can harbour this bacterium vehicles will spread it via their tyres to wherever they can drive.
I suggest there are vital lessons to be learnt here. There will be outbreaks of new diseases in the future and one may certainly ask if our farms can impliment adequate biosecurity measures.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
-
58.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
16% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
-
9.7% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
-
43.1% I want to be able to choose.
-
47.2% Against. I want to deal with people.
Loading…
