Country-Wide Winter 2025

Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Simon Upton is urging a “fundamental rethink” of New Zealand’s forestry policy and its role in emissions reduction in his latest report Alt F Reset which looks at the feasibility of large-scale native afforestation. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

The Yates family name is synonymous with seed with the family’s involvement in the seed industry starting in England in the late 1700s. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Crops like Pallaton Raphnobrassica, lucerne, Relish red clover, Ecotain plantain-clovers, Sika chicory-clovers grazed in the summer show promise in a recent study for reducing worm challenge in lambs on farms which can help with drench resistance issues through less drenching, while also lifting lamb growth rates. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Imagine if a crop could be both productive and improve environmental outcomes in a cold and wet climate. Plant & Food Research have been working with several Canterbury catchment groups to ground the science to see if forage oats can reduce the risk of nitrate leaching losses even in the toughest conditions.Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Winter forage crops are a critical part of Robert Young’s Southland farming operation. Sandra Taylor showcases the plans he puts in place to protect animal welfare and soil and water resources while these crops are being grazed. Words Sandra Taylor.

By prioritising soil health, Mid-Canterbury arable farm managers Matt and Heidi Hart are making environmental as well as crop yield gains. Words Heather Chalmers.

New research from AgResearch and Lincoln University shows rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are altering phosphorus (P) available for plant growth, potentially leading to costly and unnecessary fertiliser application by farmers. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

A major milestone has been achieved after four decades of managing TB at Molesworth Station, marking one of New Zealand’s most determined and complex biosecurity challenges. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos Kara Tait.

Nobody tries to cut a sheep, but when we do, what’s best practice? Vet Sara Sutherland says it’s not as simple as saying ‘slow down’ but highlights best practice for dealing with shearing wounds.

The wool industry continues to reckon with footage released by animal rights group PETA late last year that captured several New Zealand shearing sheds in serious breach of animal welfare standards – workers standing on sheep’s necks, dragging animals across floors, and stitching wounds without pain relief. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp