Members projects

Fonterra is developing and implementing a Mastitis Support Programme for deployment in August 2011. The Support model aims to identify suppliers that have high somatic cell counts and target proactive one on one support to drive continuous improvement on farm. Lower somatic cell counts mean healthier animals, more milk production, better returns for New Zealand suppliers and the New Zealand dairy industry.
The programme leverages Fonterra's highly skilled Service Centre team, who use an outbound calling model to explain the basics of mastitis in cows, how it is spread, and control processes that are available.

The team will also deploy Fonterra's milk quality service providers who will conduct a comprehensive traceback to ensure that all possible causes of mastitis are addressed as quickly as possible, including testing milking machines.
This service is funded by Fonterra's to ensure that suppliers have adequate financial support to continue to drive improvements. Fonterra has also established a network of approved vets and a dedicated team of mastitis prevention and reduction experts to deal with persistent cases.

To build capability Fonterra has been working with New Zealand's Agricultural Industry Training Organisation (AgITO) to develop an individually focused training course to embed skills and changes in on farm practise, and to sustain long term performance.

In summary the Mastitis Support Model is designed to deliver sustained improvement in productivity and animal health through lifting awareness, building capability and providing specialist one on one support.