Environment

Plantings on under-utilised or low-productivity areas can provide income, create value and improve environmental outcomes. Words Anne Lee.

Despite polarising views, the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is set to remain a cornerstone of New Zealand’s climate strategy for the foreseeable future. Words Sam Mander.

There are three guiding mantras at Beaumaris Dairies in Canterbury – pride, cash and simplification. Words & photos Anne Lee.

Farmers may soon have a bulk milk urea (BMU) indicator tool to help them make tactical on-farm decisions to optimise their nitrogen use efficiency and reduce the risk of nitrogen leaching. Words Anne Lee.

Breeding a more eco-friendly cow can start by selecting cows on their milk urea nitrogen trait which is linked to urinary nitrogen. Words Anne Lee.

Predator Free 2050 is an ambitious goal for New Zealand to achieve in just 25 years. Is it merely a fantasy or could this become our reality? Words Rebecca Greaves.

Fonterra will be mapping the trees and plantings across dairy farms this season and will be assigning a carbon value to demonstrate the CO2 being removed from the atmosphere.
Words Sheryl Haitana Photos Michelle Good.

The new government has put pause on the roll-out of Freshwater Farm Plans, but what should dairy farmers do now while the water is still going under the bridge with legislation and bureaucracy? Resource management specialist Tammy Deans highlights what dairy farmers should be focused on with their farm environment plans to ensure they’re bringing in freshwater focus. Words Tammy Deans

The benefits could outweigh the complications of re-establishing some of the native forestry across the Canterbury Plains. From attracting native birds and bees for pest control and pollination through to animal welfare wins and market premiums; planting the right species on your farm is worth investigating. Words Delwyn Dickey.