Dairy conversions surge but no return to the heady days
Environment Canterbury has confirmed a surge in interest in new dairy conversions, with four effluent discharge permits for conversions granted since the start of the year.
The field days, at Hinds (Nov 25) and Dunsandel (Nov 27) will help farmers identify and manage environmental risks, and improve their management practices.
DairyNZ catchment spokesman Tony Fransen says the aim is to help farmers make systems changes that ensure their farms meet regulations. “Farmers will receive practical solutions to take home and implement on their farm.”
Sessions will cover nutrient management, research and development, soils, effluent and irrigation, and land management.
The nutrient management session will focus on the nutrient budget as a tool for understanding nitrogen movement through a farm system and the key drivers for nutrient loss.
Options to reduce nutrient loss and the financial implications of changing systems will be covered by DairyNZ scientist Dawn Dally during the research and development session.
Paddock sessions will include understanding soil type and moisture levels, managing effluent and irrigator systems efficiently, the benefits of onfarm planting, waste management and identifying high-risk areas onfarm.
Certified professionals will be available on the day to provide one-on-one advice to farmers. These will include effluent and irrigation designers from accredited companies, effluent WOF assessors, nutrient management advisors, soil specialists, native plant suppliers and recycling depot representatives. A list of staff training courses will also be available.
DairyNZ’s sustainable milk plan has been approved by Environment Canterbury.
Get ready for EnviroReady
Registration is not required and a barbecue lunch will be provided.
Hinds
Tuesday, November 25
9.30am-2pm
Golden Dairies, 104 Winslow Willowby Rd, SN 2252
Dunsandel
Thursday, November 27
9.30am-2pm
Synlait farms – Tapatoru, 250 Waikimihia Rd, SN 1104
