Environment
What the farmers say
Integrated Farm Planning can seem a daunting task but there are plenty of resources and programmes available to support farmers to take the first step. Rebecca Greaves spoke to three farmers who have created their own farm plan through attending a BakerAg programme – something that can be achievable for all farmers, with a little help.
A dynamic approach
Integrated farm planning and farm assurance - everyone’s talking about it. But what does it mean, and how do we get a plan that works for our farming business?
Smart tactics help make every nutrient count
With on-farm cost pressures looking to continue for at least the foreseeable future, it’s expected that the squeeze on all farm inputs, including fertiliser, will endure through 2024. Words by Dr Ants Roberts
For the love of soil
A shared passion for soil health – and how we can harness that and turn it into our next value opportunity for New Zealand sheep and beef farmers – was the focus of a two-day workshop held at Canterbury’s Craigmore Station in November 2023. Sarah Perriam-Lampp went along. Photos by Camilla Rutherford.
The day the lake returned
Despite six years of native planting on their farm being destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle, the McBains have been busy replanting. By Rebecca Greaves. PHOTOS BY TUKITUKI LAND CARE
Natives nurture community spirit
In a tiny pocket of rural Wairarapa, a native tree nursery is flourishing and all the proceeds are going back to the community thanks to the dedication of a band of volunteers, led by local farmer Kelsey Shannon. Rebecca Greaves reports.
Defying the status quo
Millions of young native plants have benefitted from the protection of EmGuard, a cardboard tree guard, predominantly made of recycled pulp. Annabelle Latz reports.
Tapping into markets for poplar
Potential markets and uses for poplar timber are being investigated. By Rebecca Greaves.
In the wake of Gabrielle
Hawke’s Bay farmers are showing a heightened interest in protection and remedial work following the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle and climate predictions. By Tim McVeagh.
Right tree, right place
An extensive tree planting programme on Awapapa Station, near Gisborne, is bearing fruit. Trees and stock co-exist in a system that benefits the land and the animals. Rebecca Greaves reports. Photos by Louise Savage.