Freshwater

Early indications that if cows get to choose what they eat it may result in milk that contains higher levels of nutrients for its human consumers.
As part of a Lincoln University research trial, cows fed a range of specific pasture species in strips are producing milk that has higher levels of compounds such as vitamins E and B.

As we come to a close on the 2023/2024 NZ season we look to review market performance and forecasts for the season ahead. This episode talks to three experts who are focused on the markets every day, including commentary on avian flu in the US, dairy production in China and how we can negotiate our way through Europe's protectionism measures against dairy.

14 dairy farmers have been tasked with moving the freshwater quality status of Te Waikoropupu Springs in Golden Bay from ‘excellent’ to ‘absolutely amazing’ by 2038. Find out how these farmers are de-risking their farming business in the face of huge uncertainty, the power of having a collective voice in your catchment and how virtual fencing technology is supporting the challenge.

The Te Waikoropupū Springs has some of the clearest water ever measured and steps are being taken to protect it even further; yet little is known about how the aquifer system feeding it works. Meaning for those making improvements and refining practices to reduce nitrate, there is no scientific method to produce data that proves they are achieving the right results.

Checking the eDNA of water in the river crossing through their farm has had a positive impact, Penelope Drysdale writes.

After buying their own piece of paradise first farm Blair and Penelope Drysdale have thrown themselves into welcoming the community in to help restore the mauri (life force) of the awa running through the farm, the Manawatu River. By Jackie Harrigan. Photos by Brad Hanson.

From rugby league to research on improving water quality, Tawera Nikau is involved with multiple projects on his farm land in the Waikato. Sheryl Haitana talked to him about Maori plans for koi carp control and getting involved with the science of riparian planting.

When you farm within the catchment of the Te Waikoropupu Springs in Golden Bay, your environmental impact comes under particularly close scrutiny because the water is possibly New Zealand’s clearest and cleanest. Words by Anne Hardie.