Federated Farmers thinks its campaign for $150 per lamb is still achievable.
But sheep and fibre chair Bruce Wills concedes poor wool prices are the weak link in that.
The federation has set a five year target of farmers to be paid $150 for an average sized lamb.
With improved lamb returns this season, prices are now topping $100 per lamb.
But Mr Wills agrees with Graeme Harrison of the ANZCO food company, that wool prices are the achilles heel of the industry.
While wool industry initiatives are underway by Wool Partners International and Elders to lift strong wool returns, he says any gains from those are still some way down the track.
The first wool sale of the new season is underway at Napier on Thursday.
