DROUGHT RESILIENCE EVENT - Soil Health & What Diverse Pastures Can Do Under Pressure

Free Event

Come join us in Pihama, Taranaki with an on-farm discussion, to hear from local dairy farmers Cat & Simon Walker, alongside guest speakers Dr Debbie Care, Nic Conland & Mark Laurence.

In the face of drought, the Walkers’ changes to soil and pasture management have shown impressive resilience — with diverse pastures significantly thriving compared to their rye grass and clover paddocks. The Walker's have achieved this whilst progressively reducing their nitrogen inputs, from 220 units/ha, back in the day, to now just 19 units/ha.

This event is a chance to learn what they've been doing, what’s worked and what they’ve learned along the way. Adding to this, further insights, understanding and opportunities will be shared by our guest speakers and others on the day!

Guest speakers:

Mark Laurence (Dairy NZ) will speak to some of what Dairy NZ are involved with for researching diverse pastures in Taranaki & Northland. 

Dr Debbie Care (AgVice) will be enriching our understanding of the what, why and how of soil health and diverse pastures, and the many benefits they provide. 

Nic Conland (Verdi) will further speak to additional benefits and possibilities, such as on farm emissions reductions and market opportunities. 

We'll then get out on farm with spade and deep soil corer in hand for more of a look and further discussion.

Address: 144a Hone Road, Pihama (~4mins from hall)

There will be plenty of opportunity for questions and hearing from others experiences also.

Topics will include:

• Drought resilience strategies

• Diverse pastures and their many benefits + research projects

• Seed selection and establishment approaches

• Foliar applications

• Soil health and carbon drawdown

• Reducing nitrogen inputs and emissions

• The potential for market benefits

Come be part of the kōrerō/discussion — practical insights, local experience, and a timely look at growing more wellbeing, resilience and prosperity on farm.

Everyone welcome.
Lunch, teas and coffee will be provided - thanks to advise of any dietary requirements.

For any further questions, please contact Fiona Young, Pihama/Oeo Catchment Coordinator: pihama.oeo@gmai.com / 027 580 3502

This event is hosted by the Pihama/Oeo Catchment Community with support from Taranaki Catchment Communities (TCC), Quorum Sense Farmer Network, MPI, Verdi, Dairy NZ, Taranaki ReGen - Charitable Trust and the TOI Foundation.