In mid-2020 , which seems like an age ago now, Donaghys started conversations with us about running and delivering an extension programme with dairy farmers across New Zealand.

As I near completion of my summer internship at The AgriBusiness Group and prepare to return to student life at Lincoln University, I reflect on the value and relevance of today’s agricultural degree – specifically for the environmental management of farm systems. This year, I will undertake my fourth and final year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) with a Major in Environmental Management.

Sheffield Deer Farmer Stu Stokes – talks flooding, covid, mental health & navigating legislation

It’s been a tough one. A year of significant challenges has hit many Cantabrian farmers. Chatting to Stu Stokes and daughter Holly, I came to understand just how hard. Over the past two years Stu has lost a brother to cancer, lost his best mate, faced Covid market challenges, dealt with flooding and huge winds and to top it off the “bloody Sheffield Pub burnt down!”. Through all this, legislation changes requiring implementation of a Farm Environmental Plan (FEP), which is audited, is actually helping Stu with the direction and management of his business, “…to do nothing isn’t an option”.

Sam shares how hill country farmers can use pine forestry to optimise their farming business and do right by the environment.

The Climate Change Commission has released its final advice to the Government, laying out a carbon-cutting roadmap that could change the way we live.

The 418 pages of final advice would have been a colossal undertaking, building from the immense 15,000+ submissions that were received on the draft advice (earlier this year), to meet our Paris Accord target of net zero emissions by 2050.

Farm Environment Plans have historically been referred to as a tick box exercise. When reviewing compliance there are literal ticks next to the practices implemented. FEP’s have evolved - when implementing change, driving progress and educating, a tailored approach that encompasses more than current compliance is required.

The online world hasn’t escaped bull buying. Bull buying has gone digital, with most vendors also offering the bulls on an online platform. Getting along to a bull sale is always a good idea.

Resource use issues are now so complicated and require specialist skills to respond appropriately that virtually every farm now requires a specialist resource consultant as a member of their team.

Despite a one-year deferral of the new winter grazing management provisions, farmers are urged to develop a winter management plan now and use this winter to adopt and trial potential new practices.