Urea plant faces forced closure over gas supply
One of New Zealand’s largest fertiliser plants could be forced to shut down for four months as uncertainty looms over gas supply.
The company's new business extension services manager Alastair Taylor says national programmes such as the Sustainable Dairying Water Accord are putting increased pressure on farmers to manage the nutrients within the farmgate.
"Farmers need to navigate through regulations around effluent management, nutrient use and environmental performance. Our new team will provide a direct link between farmers and regional councils to take the hassle out of environmental compliance," he says.
Taylor argues that because regional councils are monitoring farms using the Overseer nutrient management model, which is jointly owned by the fertiliser industry, AgResearch and the Ministry for Primary Industries, it makes sense that they work with farmers to ensure they comply with regional plans while getting the best out of their nutrient management.
"Throughout New Zealand there is myriad of environmental regulations, by region and within regions. Our specialist team, with local experience and knowledge, helps farmers comply with their local land and water plans," he says.
The Ballance Business Extension Services team provides nutrient budgets for resource consents, compliance and sale and purchase agreements. Initially focused in Canterbury, the team has expanded its service to Horizons, Otago and Southland regions.
For more information, farmers can contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
