James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower of the Year
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
Finalist recognition places the SVS Project alongside some of the most forward thinking initiatives across New Zealand’s primary industries, highlighting the strength of innovation, science and collaboration driving the sector forward.
A practical tool supporting smarter growing
At the heart of the SVS Project is the SVS Tool, a free, online decision support tool designed to help vegetable growers optimise their nitrogen management.
Developed through extensive research and industry collaboration, the tool provides real time insights into how soil conditions, weather and crop development influence nitrogen needs.
The SVS Tool supports growers to:
- Make confident, data informed fertiliser decisions
- Improve efficiency and crop performance
- Strengthen environmental outcomes
- Enhance on-farm sustainability
By combining robust science with a user-friendly platform, the tool complements growers’ knowledge and supports smart, responsive decision-making on farm.
Collaboration delivering real impact
The SVS Project represents a partnership across the vegetable sector, science and technology and government.
Years of field trials and on-farm monitoring have produced valuable insights into nitrogen flows across vegetable systems, forming the foundation of the SVS Tool.
Celebrating innovation across the sector
Potatoes New Zealand Chief Executive Kate Trufitt said being named a finalist reflects the industry’s ongoing commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.
“It’s exciting to see the Sustainable Vegetable Systems Project recognised alongside other leading initiatives from across the primary industries.
We congratulate Prism Earth on their well deserved win, and acknowledge all finalists who are helping shape a strong and sustainable future for New Zealand’s primary sector.
The SVS Tool is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration — delivering practical, science based insights that support growers every day.”
Supporting a resilient future for vegetable production
The SVS Tool is already helping growers better understand and manage nitrogen within their systems, supporting both productivity and environmental care.
As adoption continues to grow, the tool is contributing to a more efficient, resilient and sustainable vegetable industry across New Zealand.
